On October 19, 2024, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) approved a loan of $28.25 million to the National Electric Power Company (NEPCO) in Jordan to enhance the grid's capacity for existing and new renewable energy projects.
The EBRD anticipates that the project will be co-financed through an investment grant from other partners, contributing to the total project cost of $35 million.
NEPCO will utilize the loan proceeds to fund several overhead electricity transmission lines connecting a new 400/132 kV substation in Al-Rahab to the Samra 400 kV, West Amman 400 kV, Al-Hassan Industrial Area 132 kV, and Jerash 132 kV substations.
This initiative aims to improve the capacity for existing and planned renewable energy projects, enhance transmission flexibility, strengthen the high-voltage electricity network in the northeast region, and facilitate grid connections with neighboring countries.
The project supports a comprehensive green transition by combining capital investments with technical cooperation. Specifically, it will promote the use of renewable energy sources, enhance energy security through diversified energy supplies, and integrate the energy market.
Additionally, it aims to reduce transmission losses by improving energy flow within the national grid, leading to further emissions reductions. The initiative will also enhance human capital development in green energy by establishing a new training program at NEPCO's Electrical Training Center to address market needs for digital skills and energy efficiency competencies.
Furthermore, the project will support the design of national professional skill standards that will define and document the skills and competencies required for professions in this sector.