Jordan’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has signed a strategic agreement to establish the National Advanced Natural Gas Company, known as Watani. This joint venture brings together the Jordan Petroleum Products Marketing Company (JoPetrol) and the Jordan Liquefied Gas Company, aiming to enhance energy security and optimize the use of national resources.
Strategic alignment with national energy goals
During the signing ceremony, Jordanian Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Dr. Saleh Al Kharabsheh remarked, “The creation of Watani aligns with our national strategy to secure reliable energy supplies and reduce dependence on imports.” He emphasized the crucial role of the Risha gas field as a cornerstone of Jordan’s energy future, with plans to increase production to 418 million cubic feet per day by 2030, well above the Kingdom’s current electricity generation needs, according to Jordan News Agency (Petra).
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Enhancing gas delivery to key sectors
Dr. Al Kharabsheh further explained that the project aims to supply gas to industrial cities and the residential sector, beginning with Amman and Zarqa. This initiative is expected to contribute significantly to lowering energy costs across various sectors.
JoPetrol’s CEO, Eng. Khaled Zoubi, views the establishment of the new company as a strategic move toward achieving a more efficient and sustainable energy future.
Supporting Economic Modernization Vision 2033
The creation of Watani is part of the Economic Modernization Vision 2033, which further aims to enhance reliance on local natural gas from the Risha field. This initiative is designed to provide reliable solutions for industry, transportation, and other sectors, thereby supporting the Jordanian economy and fostering a favorable regulatory environment for investment.
