EBRD may back renewable and rail projects in Jordan

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is reportedly looking into backing Jordan’s renewable energy and green hydrogen sectors, as well as a light rail project.

The multilateral development bank is working with the government to prepare tenders for battery energy storage systems and wind power plants, given the country’s strong potential and natural resources, EBRD president Odile Renaud-Basso told state-run Al-Mamlaka television.

The EBRD is working with private-sector investors to develop the green hydrogen industry in Jordan, she was quoted as saying.

“Work is underway to prepare a study to assess the infrastructure requirements and explore opportunities, though the process is still in its early stages,” she said.

The EBRD has provided €400 million ($466 million) in financing to the National Electric Power Company to support the country’s energy sector, Renaud-Basso said.

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The bank is monitoring the Amman-Zarqa light rail system, focusing on improving its planning mechanisms and assessing financial needs.

In December prime minister Jafar Hassan broke ground on the Amra City project in central Jordan, 40km from the capital, Amman, and 35km from Queen Alia International Airport.

Renaud-Basso said the mega-project was not discussed in detail, but she is aware that it is a priority for the Jordanian government.