Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Al-Kharabsheh confirmed that the Kingdom maintains a dedicated fuel reserve for power generation sufficient for one month in the event of supply disruptions. This is in addition to a strategic stockpile of petroleum products ranging between 30 and 60 days, depending on the fuel type.
اضافة اعلان
Speaking to Ain FM, Al-Kharabsheh stated that the strategic reserve has not been tapped into yet, as it is reserved for emergencies such as supply chain failures. He reassured the public that Jordan's energy sector is operating under well-studied plans to ensure continuity.
The Financial Impact of the War
The Minister highlighted the significant rise in operational costs due to the ongoing regional conflict:
Gas Prices: Before the crisis, gas for power generation cost approximately $7 per MMBtu. Currently, the government relies on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), which has spiked globally to $28 per MMBtu—a fourfold increase.
Daily Deficit: The additional daily cost borne by the treasury due to the war ranges between 2.5 and 3 million JOD, depending on demand levels.
Alternative Fuels: Due to current conditions, some plants, such as the Aqaba Thermal Power Station, have switched to fuel oil and diesel during peak demand.
Supply Chains and Pricing
Al-Kharabsheh emphasized that programmed electricity disconnection (load shedding) is not being considered at this time, provided supply chains remain functional. Regarding fuel prices for April, he noted that global Brent crude has reached nearly $100 per barrel. The pricing committee will meet at the end of the month to determine local prices, with the government aiming to mitigate the impact on citizens.
Future Energy Independence: Risha Gas Field
The Minister shared ambitious updates regarding the Risha Gas Field:
2029 Goal: The plan aims to drill 80 new wells to reach production levels exceeding 400 million cubic feet per day (mcf/d).
Self-Sufficiency: Jordan’s average daily gas consumption is 340 mcf/d, meaning local production could fully cover national demand by 2029.
Infrastructure: A tender will be issued to construct a gas pipeline connecting Risha to specialized centers, scheduled for completion by 2029.
