Using large-scale wind and solar energy production facilities, Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) and Jordan’s government are working together to carry out research on green hydrogen production methods.
For the first time in Jordan’s history, green hydrogen and green ammonia will be produced in the country, paving the way for the country to become a pioneer in renewable energy generation.
The Jordanian Minister of Environment Dr Muawieh Khalid Radaideh said “This is an exciting opportunity for Jordan to become a leader in the green energy sector through the creation and exportation of green hydrogen.
“Because of the abundance of both solar and wind power we can create in the Kingdom, Jordan has incredible renewable energy potential, as well as the potential to become a leader in producing and exporting green hydrogen and green ammonia.
“The Kingdom is committed to a greener future, and our partnership with FFI is part of our dedication to an energy transition.
“The creation of renewable energy production facilities will increase economic opportunities across Jordan, benefitting local communities and the Kingdom as a whole. This has the potential to benefit beyond the Kingdom, into the region and the global community, not only economically, but environmentally,” Minister Radaideh said.
FFI Chairman, Dr Andrew Forrest AO, said, “This partnership with the Kingdom of Jordan is another great step towards lowering emissions and creating jobs.
“The only way to stop global warming is through practical, implementable solutions and this partnership will play an important role in utilising the great potential for renewable energy in the Kingdom of Jordan,” said Dr Forrest.
FFI Chief Executive Officer, Julie Shuttleworth said “FFI is excited to partner with the Kingdom of Jordan who is showing great leadership in driving green energy projects forward.
“Jordan’s solar and wind power, located close to an operational port, makes an attractive location for production of green hydrogen and green ammonia.
“The world has come together here at COP26 to solve the climate crisis, and that needs real, concrete actions. FFI is committed to building thriving communities by delivering social, environmental and economic benefits, and we look forward to working with the Kingdom of Jordan in this new venture,” Shuttleworth said.
In order for FFI to explore the potential of large-scale solar and wind power, both parties signed the Framework Agreement. 450 square kilometers of land for potential solar production, 1,000 square kilometers of land for potential wind energy production, and 1.5 square kilometers of land inside an industrial zone for prospective downstream facilities are included in the Framework Agreement.
The parties may then negotiate the conditions of an Investment Agreement to build and construct a green hydrogen and/or green ammonia production facility on that site based on the findings of FFI’s investigations.
It is FFI’s objective to produce zero-emission green hydrogen from 100% renewable sources around the globe. As a developer and financier of zero-emissions resources, FFI has a plan and investment in renewable energy.