Latest news with #Risha
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Jordan: SEPCO generates 30% of Jordan's electricity — minister
AMMAN — Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Kharabsheh said on Thursday that the Samra Electric Power Company (SEPCO) provides around 30 per cent of Jordan's electricity needs, making it one of the country's largest and most critical energy providers. During a ceremony organised by the Samra Company in the Hashemiyah area of Zarqa Governorate to celebrate Jordan's 79th Independence Day, Kharabsheh highlighted the Economic Modernisation Vision as a strategic roadmap for the Kingdom, positioning the energy sector as a critical enabler of other industries and a cornerstone of the national economy. He also underscored the importance of addressing current challenges, transforming them into opportunities, and working toward achieving long-term national goals, according to an Energy Ministry statement. Kharabsheh also noted that the government is working to fully meet the Kingdom's natural gas needs from the Risha gas field within the next five years, through the efforts of the National Petroleum Company. Kharabsheh also highlighted the sector's key milestones, noting that SEPCO began commercial operations in 2005 with a single 100-megawatt gas turbine. "Today, its nominal generation capacity has reached 1,241 megawatts, with a projected total capacity of 1,834 megawatts by 2025," he added. He also commended the plant's efficient operation, managed by highly skilled Jordanian professionals, many of whom are residents of Zarqa, underscoring the company's role in supporting local communities and creating employment opportunities. For his part, SEPCO Director General Engineer Sami Zawatineh hailed the company's achievements since its establishment, reporting a nearly twelvefold increase in electricity production. He also noted the broader progress Jordan has made in developing its energy sector, particularly in electricity generation. © Copyright The Jordan Times. All rights reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Jordan Times
06-05-2025
- Business
- Jordan Times
Building a Resilient Jordanian Economy: Progress and Priorities
In a rapidly changing global landscape, building a resilient and sustainable economy has become a national priority for Jordan. The first quarter of 2025 has brought encouraging signs across several key sectors, reflecting a broader effort to put the economy on a stronger and more stable foundation. While the public understandably looks for faster improvements in daily life, such as better jobs and stable prices, economic resilience is a long-term project that requires patience, discipline, and clear direction. The latest government performance report highlights progress in multiple areas -mining, logistics, finance, and technology- that together form the backbone of a future ready economy. These aren't just sectoral achievements; they are part of a bigger picture of economic transformation grounded in local strengths and global trends. In mining, Jordan is taking serious steps to better utilize its natural resources. Early-stage work to extract phosphate in the Risha region and explore gold and copper reserves in Abu Khushaibeh reflects a strategic focus on self-reliance and added value. If managed well, these efforts can bring in new revenues, create local jobs, and reduce external vulnerabilities. The logistics sector is also improving. Infrastructure projects like the Bus Rapid Transit line between Salt and Amman and smart traffic forecasting systems are helping modernize transportation and ease urban congestion. These upgrades support trade, reduce operational costs, and make Jordan a more attractive hub for business. Financial developments are equally important. Total bank deposits reaching JD 47.3 billion suggest growing public trust in the financial system. Meanwhile, the rapid spread of digital payment tools such as "CliQ" shows how quickly the economy is adapting to modern tools. These trends expand access to finance for individuals and small businesses, enabling wider participation in economic growth. Digital transformation is another driver. With over 1,500 digital government services and 1.6 million digital IDs in use, the public sector is becoming more efficient and accessible. In parallel, partnerships with international tech companies are creating new opportunities for digital investment and innovation. These developments suggest a growing ability to respond to shocks, adapt to change, and lay the groundwork for sustainable development. Still, challenges remain—from global economic pressures to local structural issues. That's why reform must be continuous, and progress must be measured not just by numbers, but by its real impact on people's lives. The first quarter of 2025 shows that Jordan is moving in the right direction. What matters now is maintaining the momentum, ensuring effective coordination between government and the private sector, and keeping the focus on inclusive growth. Building a resilient economy is not a short race—it's a long journey that requires staying the course. Raad Mahmoud Al - Tal is Head of Economics Department – – University of Jordan, [email protected]
