Amman: The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources convened the steering committee meeting for the "Promoting Zero-Energy Houses and Buildings in Jordan" project, implemented in cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), with representatives from partner entities present.
According to Jordan News Agency, Secretary General of the Ministry Amani Azzam emphasized the significance of the ongoing partnership with JICA, acknowledging the agency's technical support for national projects in energy efficiency and climate action. Azzam highlighted the shared commitment to sustainable development and energy security through this collaboration.
Azzam pointed out that the buildings sector is critical for reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions, aligning with Jordan's national energy and climate policies. The shift towards zero-energy buildings is seen as an environmental priority and a strategic objective for economic and social development.
The project takes a comprehensive approach, integrating technical solutions with regulatory and legislative frameworks to ensure the long-term adoption of zero-energy buildings. Azzam stressed the importance of developing innovative financing options to support these policies, aiming to attract public and private investment, reduce risks, and encourage private-sector involvement.
Chief Representative of JICA Office in Jordan, Morihata Shingo, expressed a desire to strengthen cooperation with the ministry on the project in the coming years, assuring continued technical support from JICA in energy efficiency and climate action initiatives.
Project Director Ola Sarhan outlined the project's goals, including conducting technical and economic studies for Zero Energy Buildings and Houses (ZEB/ZEH), developing financial incentives, and drafting policies to promote clean energy technologies. These efforts align with national sustainable energy plans, such as NEEAP IV.
During the meeting, both ministry and JICA teams presented working papers that included a comprehensive project assessment, an action plan for the coming year, activities already implemented, and recommendations for future steps.