Overview
Shamsuna is a 10.1 MW solar PV plant located in Jordan, contributing to the country's renewable energy expansion under its national energy strategy.
Shamsuna is an operational solar photovoltaic (PV) plant located in Jordan, with a capacity of 10.1 MW. The facility is situated in the southern region of the country, near the city of Aqaba, an area known for high solar irradiance. As a medium-scale solar installation, it plays a role in diversifying Jordan's energy mix and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels. The plant operates under Jordan's regulatory framework for renewable energy, which includes feed-in tariffs and net metering schemes designed to attract investment in solar and wind projects. Jordan has set ambitious targets to generate 31% of its electricity from renewables by 2030, supported by the Jordan Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund (JREEEF). Shamsuna's capacity of 10.1 MW places it among the country's operational solar farms that contribute to grid stability and peak demand management. Environmentally, the Shamsuna plant helps offset carbon emissions by displacing fossil fuel-based generation. Solar PV installations in Jordan's arid climate require minimal water for operation, a critical advantage in a water-scarce region. The facility's location in a desert area reduces land-use conflicts, though large-scale solar farms can impact local ecosystems. Overall, Shamsuna supports Jordan's transition to a low-carbon economy while enhancing energy security.
Environmental context
Jordan's solar PV plants like Shamsuna are typically sited in desert regions with high solar exposure, minimizing competition with agricultural land. However, large installations can alter local microclimates and disrupt desert habitats. The arid environment means water use for panel cleaning is minimal, but dust accumulation can reduce efficiency. Grid integration challenges exist due to the variable nature of solar power, requiring investment in storage or backup capacity.
Frequently asked questions
Shamsuna is located in southern Jordan, near the city of Aqaba, at coordinates 29.394°N, 35.027°E.
Shamsuna has a capacity of 10.1 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale solar photovoltaic facility.
Shamsuna helps Jordan achieve its target of generating 31% of electricity from renewables by 2030, as outlined in the country's National Energy Strategy.
Jordan's renewable energy sector is supported by feed-in tariffs, net metering, and the Jordan Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund (JREEEF), which incentivize solar and wind projects.
Solar PV plants reduce greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel generation, require minimal water for operation, and utilize arid land that is less suitable for agriculture.