Fotowatio starts construction of two new solar PV plants in Jordan

Spain's Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV), a subsidiary of Saudi-based Abdul Latif Jameel Energy, has started  construction of two new solar PV plants, Mafraq I and Mafraq II, in Jordan.

The facilities, part of Jordanian solar programme, will be built with a total investment of $180m.

Around 500 jobs are expected to be created during the construction of plants, which are set to be operational by next year.

When commissioned, the plants will generate a total of 133.4MW ofpower, which would make up around 2% of Jordan’s total capacity, enough to supply more than 80,000 households per year.

The projects will also help reduce more than 160,000t of carbon dioxide (CO2) annually, equivalent to removing nearly 34,000 cars from Jordan’s roads.

Fotowatio Renewable Ventures Middle East managing director Carlo Frigerio said: “These projects reflect our strong commitment to delivering a sustainable future for Jordan.

“We want to promote the generation of clean and affordable energy in the country and we are committed to the creation of local employment and actions that contribute positively to the country’s social development.”

Following the completion of the Mafraq I and Mafraq II projects, FRVis planning tobegin the construction of a third project in September this year in Jordan.

FRV Middle East, Africa and Australia COO Tristán Higuero said: “We have recently submitted a bid for a 50MW project tendered by the Water Authority of Jordan.

“This remarkable proposal shows FRV´s and Abdul Latif Jameel Energy’s commitment and continued effort to deliver green and affordable electricity to support Jordanian plans and improve people’s lives.”

The Mafraq I prject has also received a financing package from International Finance (IFC), Dutch Development Bank (FMO) and Europe Arab Bank.

Mafraq II has secured financial support from European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and Society for the Promotion and Participation for Economic Cooperation (PROPARCO).

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Image: Abdul Latif Jameel Energy and Jordan Government representatives. Photo: courtesy of Abdul Latif Jameel Energy.