Protesters in Jordan are intensifying their efforts against the government's new energy law, which they claim is detrimental to renewable energy investors and citizens alike. The Ministry of Energy and the Jordan Regulatory Commission recently approved a law that has sparked widespread discontent among the 498 companies operating in the renewable energy sector, which employs over 20,000 individuals, including engineers and technicians. The law has led to protests, including a sit-in organized by these investors, who argue that the legislation is contradictory and unfair. They assert that it primarily benefits the Jordanian Electricity Company while hindering investment in renewable energy, especially for commercial sectors.
The new law stipulates that the electricity company will charge 13 dinars ($18.4) for every kilowatt hour, significantly affecting small businesses with electricity bills around 200 dinars ($282.2). In contrast, the previous law imposed no such tax. Protesters emphasize that the government's actions are detrimental to their financial stability and the broader economy, as they deprive businesses of utilizing solar energy to reduce costs. Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Dr. Saleh Al-Kharabsheh, however, argues that the new law aims to enhance investment in renewable energy and improve energy efficiency, despite the ongoing backlash from the sector.
- The protesters have issued statements highlighting their concerns that the new energy law will lead to increased costs for citizens while simultaneously undermining the renewable energy sector in Jordan. They claim that the government is prioritizing short-term financial savings over sustainable energy solutions, which could have long-term benefits for both the economy and the environment. With electricity prices in Jordan being among the highest in the Arab world, the push for renewable energy sources has never been more critical. The protesters are calling for a reconsideration of the law to ensure that it supports rather than stifles the growth of renewable energy in the country.
