AMMAN — The war involving Iran, Israel and the United States is accelerating Jordan’s shift towards renewable energy. The transition is likely to remain critical beyond the current energy supply crisis.

 

The escalation has raised concerns over global oil routes, exposing the sensitivity of import-dependent economies. Tensions are rising around key maritime chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly one fifth of global oil flows.

 

The stability of these routes remains closely tied to US naval presence in the region.

 

For Jordan, the risks are immediate, as the Kingdom imports most of its energy needs. This leaves it exposed to price uncertainty and supply disruptions driven by regional instability.

 

Energy security is no longer just an economic issue. It is a strategic concern. Jordan is pushing forward with its renewable energy strategy, aiming to generate 50 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The goal is to reduce reliance on external supplies and strengthen resilience.

 

Progress has been rapid, with renewable energy accounting for around 27 to 28.5 per cent of electricity generation by the end of 2024. A decade earlier, the figure stood at just 1 per cent.

 

This expansion is reshaping the country’s energy mix. It is also providing a degree of insulation during periods of regional instability.

 

Jordan’s strategy builds on strong natural advantages. The country benefits from more than 300 days of sunshine annually. Wind conditions are also favourable.

 

Large-scale projects, including the Shams Maan solar plant and expanding wind farms, have increased domestic generation. They have also strengthened energy resilience.

 

In times of crisis, this capacity offers a limited but critical buffer. Renewable energy provides a locally generated source of electricity.

 

At the same time, the government is relying on contingency planning.

 

Energy Minister Saleh Kharabsheh said Jordan maintains fuel reserves covering around 30 days. Additional gas supplies are also secured.

 

He said power plants can switch between gas, diesel and heavy fuel oil. “This provides flexibility during supply disruptions.”

 

However, this flexibility comes at a cost. Additional daily expenses are estimated at around JD2.5 million. Costs could rise further if global prices continue to increase.

 

The government has also prepared contingency scenarios for potential supply disruptions or escalation. These plans are ready for immediate implementation if needed.

 

While such measures provide short-term stability, the broader challenge remains structural.

 

Economic expert Musa Saket said global conflicts quickly translate into economic pressure on Jordan.

 

“Any disruption, whether in Ukraine, Gaza or the Gulf, is reflected almost immediately in Jordan’s energy bill and the cost of electricity and transport,” he said.

 

“renewable energy contributes around 27 per cent of electricity generation. Its share of total energy consumption remains below 14 per cent. This means the current level of protection is still limited.”

 

Energy expert Amer Shobaki said the challenge is also technical.

 

“Renewables can support electricity generation during the day, but they cannot be relied on in emergencies,” he said.

 

He noted that solar and wind power depend on stable weather conditions. Jordan also lacks large-scale storage systems.

 

He added that solar energy can provide partial support. However, it remains intermittent and cannot yet serve as a fully reliable source of power.

 

“Jordan is accelerating its transition, but gaps in reliability remain. Closing these gaps will be key to ensuring long-term energy readiness beyond the current crisis.”