On October 3, 2023, EDAMA, in collaboration with USAID – Energy Sector Support Activity (ESSA), hosted a groundbreaking power breakfast titled “Endorsing Sustainability Practices / COP28.” This event served as a pivotal platform to highlight Jordan’s ambitious transition from conventional energy sources to renewable energy streams. The distinguished panel featured key figures from Jordan’s government, private sector, and international experts, discussing the nation’s aspirations and strategies in this energy revolution.
Dr. Dureid Mahasneh, the Chairman of EDAMA, warmly welcomed the attendees and introduced the distinguished guests, setting the stage for an insightful and inspiring dialogue. Following Dr. Mahasneh’s welcome, Mr. Richard Chen, a USAID representative, emphasized the urgent need for action in the face of climate change. He highlighted USAID’s role in supporting Jordanian institutions, particularly their collaboration with the National Electric Power Company (NEPCO), as a testament to international alliances for a sustainable future. Mr. Chen stressed the imperative of fostering collaboration, underlining that sustainable and resilient futures required unified efforts, both nationally and internationally.
Nancy Sutley who is Los Angeles Department of Water and Power’s Senior Assistant General Manager of External and Regulatory Affairs and Chief Sustainability Officer, provided a global perspective on the challenges and opportunities in transitioning to renewable energy sources. Nancy highlighted recent natural disasters and the pressing national effort for net-zero decarbonization. She also discussed the interconnections between water management and power transition, sharing Los Angeles’ remarkable journey in decarbonization.
Dr. Yusuf Mansour also emphasized the pressing need for accessible finance, noting that fees and taxes constituted 30% of Jordan’s GDP, emphasizing financial inclusivity as vital for both economic growth and environmental sustainability. On the global stage, he highlighted the responsibility of affluent nations to aid less fortunate counterparts, bridging financial gaps and enabling countries like Jordan to invest in sustainable practices and green technologies. In his closing remarks, Dr. Mansour issued a compelling call to action, stressing comprehensive involvement from all sectors and envisioning collaboration between affluent and less privileged nations, transforming not only the environmental landscape but also the social and economic fabric, leaving no one behind.
Dr. Jihad Alsawir, representing the Jordanian Environment Ministry, emphasized the critical role of the Jordanian government in its decarbonization efforts. He outlined how the government is committed to decarbonization through initiatives like the Green Growth Action Plan and enabling actions within the framework of the government’s green economy strategy. These commitments include contributing to the national economy through investments in green technologies, preserving biodiversity and resources, addressing social issues such as poverty and unemployment, mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts, and developing renewable energy, with Jordan achieving a commendable 27% renewable energy integration.
As the event concluded, the collective vision of all the speakers painted a powerful picture: Jordan was not just embracing change; it was shaping the future of sustainable energy, one innovative policy at a time.
