Jordan solar energy: Impressive Growth to 2030, IEA Finds

The International Energy Agency (IEA) anticipates that solar photovoltaic (PV) systems will be the main driver of renewable energy growth in Jordan and the broader Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region by 2030. This regional surge is a key part of a global trend where renewable power capacity is forecast to increase by an astounding 4,600 GW by the end of the decade.

Renewable Energy Growth in Jordan solar energy

Jordan’s renewable energy sector is set to grow substantially by 2030, driven primarily by solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that Jordan will add 1.7 gigawatts (GW) of renewable capacity by the end of this decade. This growth is part of a broader trend across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, where solar PV systems are expected to account for 65% of the 53 GW of renewable capacity additions. Ambitious targets are being set across the region, with neighboring countries like Iraq also aiming for significant solar capacity expansion, as detailed in the Iraq Solar Panel Manufacturing Report | Market Analysis ….

The IEA’s Renewable Energy Market Update highlights that MENA countries will increase their renewable capacity by over 50% by 2030, reaching a total of 160 GW. Solar PV will play a central role in this expansion, with the technology being adopted rapidly due to its decreasing costs and growing efficiency. In 2024 alone, the MENA region is expected to add 7 GW of solar PV capacity, with Jordan contributing significantly to this growth, supported by strong policy frameworks and excellent solar resources.

Solar PV Technology

The surge in solar PV installations is attributed to advancements in technology and economies of scale, which have driven down costs. Understanding the basics of solar panel manufacturing reveals how improvements in the solar panel manufacturing process and the quality of solar panel raw materials have led to more efficient and affordable panels. The IEA notes that solar PV is becoming increasingly competitive with traditional fossil fuels, making it an attractive option for countries looking to diversify their energy mix. In Jordan, the government has been proactive in promoting solar energy through various initiatives, including subsidies and tax incentives for solar projects.

The IEA’s report also underscores the importance of grid infrastructure in supporting renewable energy growth. As more solar PV systems are installed, the need for a robust and reliable electricity grid becomes crucial. The report suggests that MENA countries, including Jordan, will need to invest in grid modernization to accommodate the influx of renewable energy. This includes enhancing transmission lines, integrating energy storage solutions, and implementing smart grid technologies.

In addition to solar PV, the IEA’s report highlights the potential for other renewable energy sources in the MENA region. Wind power, in particular, is expected to see significant growth, with 12 GW of new capacity projected by 2030. Jordan is also exploring opportunities in wind energy, with several wind farms already operational and more projects in the pipeline. The combination of solar and wind energy is expected to provide a stable and reliable source of electricity for the country, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Policy and Investment

The IEA emphasizes the role of government policy in driving renewable energy adoption. In Jordan, the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Law has been instrumental in creating a favorable environment for renewable energy investments. The law provides a framework for private sector participation in renewable energy projects, encouraging both domestic and international investors to enter the market.

Investment in renewable energy is also being supported by international organizations. The World Bank, for example, has been actively involved in financing renewable energy projects in Jordan, providing loans and grants to support the development of solar and wind infrastructure. These investments are crucial for achieving the country’s renewable energy targets and ensuring a sustainable energy future.

The growth of renewable energy in Jordan is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, creating jobs and reducing energy costs. The IEA’s report highlights that the renewable energy sector is a major source of employment, with jobs being created in areas such as solar panel manufacturing, installation, and maintenance. The investment required for this industrial growth, from specialized solar panel manufacturing machines to facility construction, is substantial, as outlined in a typical solar panel manufacturing plant cost breakdown. In addition, the shift to renewable energy is expected to lower electricity prices, benefiting consumers and businesses alike.

The IEA’s forecast for renewable energy growth in Jordan and the MENA region underscores the transformative potential of solar PV. With the right policies and investments, Jordan is well-positioned to become a leader in renewable energy, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. As renewables are projected to supply nearly 45% of global electricity by 2030, understanding this dynamic industry is more important than ever. To learn more about entering this growing field, you can sign up for our Free E-Course.