Irbid: Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Kharabsheh has announced the initiation of a comprehensive technical study aimed at reviewing the loss rate at electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Irbid. The study’s objective is to identify solutions to enhance the efficiency of these stations.
According to Jordan News Agency, the Ministry is currently examining regulatory measures for charging stations to balance the expansion of the electric vehicle sector with regulation that meets both technical and economic requirements. Kharabsheh shared these insights during a meeting held at the Irbid District Electricity Company, attended by key figures including Ziad Saida, Chairman of the Energy and Minerals Regulatory Commission (EMRC), Bashar Tamimi, CEO of Irbid Electricity, Mohammad Shouha, Chairman of the Irbid Chamber of Commerce, and various investors in the electric vehicle charging sector.
Kharabsheh highlighted that with the introduction of electric vehicles into the local market and the subsequent licensing of charging stations, the Ministry has adopted a policy of facilitating rather than complicating procedures. This approach acknowledges the role of charging stations in creating job opportunities and supporting a range of commercial activities.
Regarding new fuel station licenses, Kharabsheh mentioned that the Ministry is reconsidering the requirement for an electric charger at new stations, with plans for further study. He stressed the importance of equitable distribution of charging stations and noted that applications for licenses from adjacent plots necessitate a thorough examination to ensure fairness.
He further stated the Ministry’s encouragement of investment in solar energy and energy storage, with openness to licensing charging stations powered by renewable energy, provided they operate independently of the national grid. This initiative aims to boost reliance on clean energy and support sustainability in the electric vehicle transport sector.
Kharabsheh assured that the Ministry, in collaboration with the EMRC and relevant stakeholders, will continue addressing challenges and suggestions, reviewing regulatory aspects to improve service delivery amid the sector’s rapid expansion. This is expected to positively impact the sector, enhance sustainability, and encourage investment, including the integration of charging stations with the national grid.
Saida emphasized that the EMRC will continue monitoring challenges and feedback from the meeting to find suitable solutions. Tamimi noted that Irbid Electricity has received feedback regarding EV charging stations, acknowledging Irbid as the leading governorate for such stations, and supports the sector’s strategic importance in promoting clean energy use.
Shouha confirmed that the Chamber of Commerce has received several comments from EV charging stations, highlighting the sector’s potential and the need for suitable infrastructure to resolve any issues and deliver optimal services.
During the meeting, charging station owners called for a review of sector regulations and the expansion of licenses in Irbid, which they believe would improve operational mechanisms and create a more favorable environment for current and future investors. They also requested effective solutions for integrating charging stations with the national grid.