AMMAN —The Network for Jordanian Industrial Sustainability (The Network) hosted today a workshop in Aqaba to discuss energy efficiency, alternative energy and energy audits. This was the fourth in a series of energy events, and participants at the workshop represented many different sectors including academia, industry members, service providers, and regulatory body representatives. Specific topics explored were energy audits, finance options for energy audits, energy efficiency and alternative energy for industrial facilities. Case studies and success stories were presented by Nuqul Tissue, Lafarge Group, Nutridar, Siniora, and Kemapco. Specialists from different areas of expertise that provide service or benefit to industrial facilities joined a panel discussion on solar thermal energy, solar energy, solar cooling, renewable energy and energy efficiency legislation. In addition the program Solar Cooling for Industry and Commerce (funded by GIZ) was presented and the Electrical Regulatory Commission (ERC) was represented on the panel.

The Network Energy Series started in July with a focus on energy management, alternative energy, and reduction of energy use as well as utility bills within industrial facilities. During October The Network held events in both Irbid and Aqaba to provide access to this valuable information to northern and southern industrial facilities.  Together with the events already conducted in Amman, The Network encourages discussion and analysis that can address specific regional needs of Jordanian industry.

This initiative is supported by the Water Reuse and Environmental Conservation Project, a five year project funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

Eng. Khaldoun Habahbeh of the Electric Regulatory Commission (ERC) highlighted the importance of the Network. “After joining The Network sponsored field visit to Philadelphia Solar, we shared their experience ERC senior management. As a result, ERC will be using the lessons learned from Philadelphia Solar’s experience with renewable energy as it works on relevant legislation.”

Through live events and a web portal The Network serves as a platform for connecting and capitalizing upon the collective skills and knowledge of its members in order to benefit industry and the environment. Events in the past year have included field visits, workshops, and trainings, in addition to a series of events exploring energy related topics. Resources on The Network compliment live events by focusing on energy, water, finance, and case studies.  The next Network events focus on energy standards and labeling, treated waste water reuse, and water management within industrial facilities.

In the past year since its inception The Network has hosted or attended over 35 events. The web portal (www.jordannetwork.net) has nearly 800 members from over 40 countries and over 800 resources. The Network is free for any interested person to join. All resources presented and event outcomes are ultimately posted on The Network.

The USAID Water Reuse and Environmental Conservation Project is a five-year effort funded by USAID and implemented by AECOM. The project has signed agreements with 28 industrial facilities throughout Jordan to provide training, audits and technical assistance for improved environmental management; a total of 40 industrial facilities will benefit from this activity.

The project also works with government agencies, regulators, industries, and communities  throughout Jordan, assisting them in regulatory enforcement and compliance, pollution prevention, environmental management systems, industrial wastewater treatment, landfill cleanup, and wastewater reuse. The project addresses the whole cycle of industrial water use, treatment, disposal, and reuse. The ultimate benefits are that industries will be more competitive, create more employment opportunities, and decrease their impact on the environment.

The United States Agency for International Development and the Government of Jordan has been partners in Jordan’s development for over 50 years.  The United States is committed to helping Jordan reach its goal of economic prosperity for all citizens.