Ministries Ink Deal To Deliver Electricity To Limited Income Families

Amman, Jan. 21 (Petra) – Minister of Social Development Wafa Bani Mustafa and Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Kharabsheh signed Sunday a memorandum of understanding to supply electricity to eligible segments with limited income, funded by the rural fils and per the terms of use outlined by the Ministry of Social Development.

Bani Mustafa emphasized the significance of inter-ministerial cooperation in delivering services to citizens, particularly families in need of assistance. She highlighted that closer collaboration with the Ministry of Energy aligns with the National Strategy for Social Protection, extending beyond the Ministry of Social Development to encompass all government institutions.

She expressed that the agreement aims to benefit needy families requiring accessible and straightforward electricity services. This initiative aligns with the ministry’s pivotal role in social protection and catering to the needs of the relevant demographic.

Kharabsheh noted that the memorandum stems from the strategic plans of both ministries, aiming to integrate efforts and broaden the scope of beneficiaries for electricity delivery funded by rural fils. He pointed out the Ministry of Social Development’s efforts in social protection, alleviating the burdens on needy families, and reducing their numbers.

The Minister of Energy highlighted the measures taken to serve the targeted population, addressing the growing demand for electricity delivery within regulated limits through three electricity distribution companies. Additionally, efforts extend to homes beyond regulated limits and those distant from electrical networks, employing solar energy units as independent systems not connected to the electrical grid.

He stated that the agreement focuses on organizing and overseeing transactions for citizens meeting the specified conditions, striving for optimal performance in serving these segments. The percentage of electricity beneficiaries has reportedly reached 99.9 percent nationwide.

Hisham Momani, the Director of the Directorate of Electricity and Rural Electrification at the Ministry of Energy, stated that delivering electricity at the expense of rural fils to homes within the organization’s boundaries via regular electrical networks is estimated to cost a maximum of JD3,000 for the beneficiary location. This is in line with approved principles and procedures of the ministry.

Momani explained that the provision of this service is based on an official letter from the Ministry of Social Development to the Ministry of Energy, adhering to conditions for eligibility outlined by the Ministry of Social Development.

Requirements include proof of homeownership, registration deeds, land plans, regulatory site plans, construction licenses, and work permits, along with a social status study.

Additional conditions stipulate that beneficiaries do not own land valued at four times the construction cost, the construction expense for electricity delivery does not exceed JD50,000, and the dwelling must not be seasonal, functional housing, or a farm, considering less fortunate areas and pockets of poverty.

The projects for supplying electricity outlined in the agreement are undergoing implementation through competitive bidding involving specialized local companies. This approach aims to stimulate investment and create employment opportunities for citizens.

The number of individuals benefitting from projects involving the installation of solar energy systems, independent of the electrical network, has reached 102 beneficiaries since 2015. The associated financial cost for these projects has amounted to JD136,000.

//Petra// AJ

21/01/2024 15:37:18

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