13 December 2007
Ekar Invest, Project Jordan continue with immense turn out

Amman- The third day of Ekar Invest and Project Jordan 2007 shows focused on presenting the latest energy efficiency technologies and the use of environment-friendly techniques in real estate and construction.

International Fairs and Promotions-Jordan (IFP Jordan) General Manager Rose Al Wazani emphasized that this year's shows not only showcase the latest in real-estate, construction and building material, but also include a full-fledged presentation on modern techniques in energy saving and safeguarding the environment.

On the sidelines of Project Jordan 2007, the National Energy Research Center of Jordan and MED-ENEC project organized an 'Energy Efficiency Day.' Examples of energy efficiency in the construction sector were presented and discussed by EU- and MEDA- country experts. Companies present at the fair also gave an overview on their energy efficiency portfolio. 

The MED-ENEC project (supported by EU, executed by the German Technical Cooperation GTZ) aims at improving energy efficiency and the use of renewable energies in the construction sector in the MEDA countries. Important partners for reaching this goal are business stakeholders. 

"The organization of the Energy Efficiency Day falls within IFP's corporate social responsibility which aims at raising awareness of the importance of saving the energy and the environment," Al Wazani said.

H.E. Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Khaldoon Kteishat emphasized the importance of energy saving and raising the efficiency of energy consumption in light of the sharp global increase in oil prices which has put "so much pressure on Jordan's economy."

"Jordan has limited local energy resources and depends heavily on imported crude oil for its energy use," HE the minister said at an opening speech delivered  by President of the National Energy Research Centre Malek Al Kabariti. 

"In 2006, the cost of energy consumption has increased to JD1.9 billion, which represents 18.9% of the GDP. In order to meet such challenges, Jordan needs to adopt several measures to reduce the burden of increased energy cost. Energy efficiency and renewable energy are the most effective measures," he said.

President of the NERC Mr. Kabariti said that Jordan faces a difficult challenge due to its limited resources. He emphasized the need to unite energy saving efforts and using the most efficient and environmentally-friendly techniques.

Deputy NERC president Mr. Ammar Al Taher expressed his gratitude for the EU support. He emphasized the need to institutionalize the Energy Efficiency Day and making it an annual national event that will raise awareness about energy efficiency benefits especially for companies.

Mrs. Angelina Eichorst of the EU Commission in Jordan said the benefits of the MED-ENEC projects should be expanded to benefit all countries in the region. She emphasized the need to continue the national sustainable efforts to help generations to come.

The Jordan Investment Board will present a special presentation on Thursday at 2.30 pm about the investment climate and business opportunities in Jordan.

It is worth noting that the Platinum Sponsor of the event is the Aqaba Development Corporation, the Gold Sponsor is Taameer Jordan Holdings, while the Silver sponsor is Al Mushatta Industrial City.

Ekar Invest and Project Jordan 2007 run until today (Thursday 13th December 2007) at Amman Exhibitions Park, near Dunes Club on Airport Road. The shows are open from 2:00 - 8:00 PM daily.

-Ends-

© Press Release 2007