Aqaba: The Jordan Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund (JREEEF) organized a workshop in Aqaba to showcase its initiatives aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in key sectors.
According to Jordan News Agency, the event was attended by a representative of the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Saleh Al-Kharabsheh, the Secretary-General of the Ministry, Amani Al-Azzam, and representatives from relevant institutions and sectors. Al-Azzam emphasized the significance of enhancing energy efficiency and promoting conservation across various sectors, aligning with the National Energy Strategy's goal to improve energy-use efficiency by 15 percent by 2035.
She mentioned the collaboration with the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), which has led to several projects, including replacing lighting units in municipalities and implementing programs in mosques, hotels, and other facilities, thereby boosting energy efficiency in Aqaba.
Rasmi Hamza, JREEEF Executive Director, highlighted the crucial role of energy audits in pinpointing areas of energy waste and potential savings within facilities. He explained that diagnostic studies assist facilities in identifying priority measures and starting with lower-cost solutions that can provide quicker returns.
Hamza also shared successful projects executed by the Fund in the hotel sector in Aqaba and Petra, which have improved energy efficiency and reduced operating costs. He stressed the importance of replicating such models in other economic and vital sectors.
ASEZA Commissioner for Environmental Affairs Nidal Al-Aouran underscored the need for continued cooperation among institutions and expanding investment in energy-efficiency and renewable-energy projects. He called for enhancing the role of commercial banks in offering accessible financing for these initiatives.
The workshop is part of efforts to introduce the Fund's programs, leverage successful experiences, and strengthen public-private sector cooperation, contributing to economic savings and environmental sustainability across multiple sectors.