Jordan has finally announced the long-awaited third renewable energy tender as it prepares to expand its clean energy infrastructure further.
The Middle East Solar Industry Association recently announced that Jordan issued tenders for 200 MW solar power and 100 MW wind energy capacity. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources had announced in September that a tender of 400-700 MW capacity would be issued.
Apart from the tender, plans have also been announced for setting up 60 MW solar power projects for on-site consumption. These may likely to targeted at commercial and industrial consumers.
In May 2015, Jordan allocated 200 MW of solar PV power projects in the second round auction, after a total of 33 companies had submitted technical proposals to set up power projects. However, only 24 of them eventually submitted financial bids. Four developers submitting the lowest bids were selected to develop 50 MW of capacity each. The lowest tariff bid was submitted by a Greek company, SUNRISE Photovoltaic Systems, which placed a bid of just US¢6.13 per kWh. Saudi Oger, Fotowatio Solar Renewable Ventures, and Hareon Solar also secured a 50 MW project each.
In February 2015, the government auctioned 200 MW of solar and wind energy capacity. It was the first ever renewable energy auction in Jordan.
Last month, the Masdar Group announced plans to set up a 200 MW solar power project in Jordan. The project shall be the largest solar power project in Jordan. The project development will be overseen by Masdar subsidiary Baynouna Solar Energy Company.
Jordan has set a target of installing 600 MW of solar PV capacity and 1,200 MW of wind energy capacity by 2020 to reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels. To reach the 2020 renewable energy target and further enhance the clean energy infrastructure, the country has established the Jordan Renewable Energy and Efficiency Fund which is financed by the government as well as international donors like the French Development Agency and the World Bank.
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