Ma'an, April 2 (Petra) -- Ma’an Development Company (MDC) has strengthened its "strategic position as a regional hub" for industrial investment and renewable energy projects by expanding solar complexes and advancing plans to supply natural gas to Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone (SEZ).

In a statement to "Petra" Thursday, MDC CEO Mohammad Abu Tayeh said Ma’an’s "high solar irradiation rates provide a strong competitive" advantage, positioning the governorate as a key destination for large-scale solar investments.

He noted the company has completed development and full commercial operation of the first solar complex.

Abu Tayeh said infrastructure for the second solar complex has been completed, enabling new solar power generation projects under approved mechanisms.

He stated these processes include generation and sale to the National Electric Power Company, off-site net metering, zero-export arrangements, and full export and import schemes, adding that projects aim to increase the share of renewable energy in Jordan’s energy mix.

He added that SEZ is undergoing "strategic" transformation, particularly with a project to supply natural gas to factories.

The initiative, he said, is expected to cut production costs and enhance competitiveness in heavy industries, including glass manufacturing, high-purity silica processing, and solar panel production, noting the company is also developing an internal gas distribution network.

The zone covers 2.5 square kilometers, with more than 750,000 square meters already developed and equipped with infrastructure to attract industrial investment.

Abu Tayeh said development efforts also extend beyond industry and energy to include service and community projects.

These steps include the "Oasis" project, which provides integrated services for travelers along the international highway, and a residential complex for female students offering a safe and supportive living environment, he pointed out.

Through its non-profit arm, he added that Ma’an Community Development Company, the MDC is implementing programs to support small businesses, empower women, and assist charitable organizations, aiming to promote economic and social sustainability in the governorate.

In turn, Energy expert Ghazi Twaissi said integrating renewable energy projects with natural gas supply is "key" to enhancing the competitiveness of industrial zones, particularly in regions like Ma’an with strong comparative advantages.

He noted access to stable and low-cost energy directly reduces production costs for heavy industries, which boost their ability to expand and attract "high-value" investments, especially in resource-based sectors.

Twaissi added that the planned expansion of solar energy projects and gas infrastructure development strengthens Jordan’s energy security and supports a "sustainable development model," based on optimal use of local resources, in line with the Economic Modernization Vision.

//Petra//NQ