News

OTTAWA, August 19, 2021 – The Sustainable Energy and Economic Development in Jordan Project (SEED), funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and implemented by Cowater International, was recognized for its contributions to supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy (EE&RE) solutions in Jordan. SEED aims to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth in the Jordan Valley and Ajloun regions through the uptake of low-carbon renewable energy technologies.

SEED’s efforts to advance sustainable energy initiatives in Jordan received three awards from the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). The awards were presented for the following achievements, as part of AEE’s Regional Awards 2021 contest:

• Middle East Region Energy Project of the Year Award for 2021
• Middle East Region Innovative Energy Project of the Year Award for 2021
• Middle East Region Energy Innovator of the Year Award for 2021

“Energy efficiency and renewable energy investments are critical to improving the livelihoods of Jordanians and boosting the competitiveness of local entrepreneurs. We are delighted that our SEED project team’s efforts in supporting Jordan’s sustainable development are being internationally recognized and celebrated, and we look forward to continuing our work in supporting Jordan’s energy sector priorities.”, said David Baron, President and CEO of Cowater International.

Cowater International has prioritized investments in EE&RE projects since 2015. Our vision is to remain an adaptable and innovative leader in the EE&RE sector and advance solutions that address climate change and promote sustainable development.

Ajloun Castle is now powered by clean energy with support from SEED Jordan project

In addition to supporting renewable energy solutions for Jordanian households, SEED was celebrated for powering the historical Ajloun Castle using clean energy. Moreover, AEE recognized Engineer Mohammad Ramadan, the project’s team leader, for his role in advancing sustainable energy solutions in the country. AEE is a non-profit professional society, whose mission is to promote the scientific and educational interests of those engaged in the energy industry and to foster action for Sustainable Development. The AEE Regional Awards will be presented in October, at the 2021 AEE World Energy Conference & Expo in New Orleans, USA.

About SEED Jordan

The Sustainable Energy and Economic Development in Jordan Project (SEED) is a $22 million CAD, 5-year initiative funded by Global Affairs Canada and the Jordan Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund, and implemented by Cowater International.

Through supporting investments in renewable energy, SEED is contributing to an overall reduction of approximately 6.2 thousand tons in CO2 emissions. The project has helped raise awareness about renewable energy for more than 77 thousand people and has created over 300 skilled jobs in Jordan’s EE & RE sector. Over 27 thousand households and 13 schools and health centres benefited from EE and RE investments, reducing electricity costs for people and institutions and protecting our environment.  In addition, 1500 households benefited from installing PV systems through the program and another 1500 households benefited from solar water heaters. Furthermore, the program constructed two 1MW wheeling systems in the Jordan Valley.

About Cowater International

Founded in 1985, Cowater International is a leading global development consulting company. Headquartered in Ottawa and with corporate hubs in Brussels, London (UK), Montreal and Nairobi, Cowater International has successfully delivered a portfolio of over 2500 projects and assignments in more than 95 countries. We work with governments, private sector actors and communities implementing projects that support socio-economic development, institutional strengthening, environmental improvements and advance equal opportunities for all. We are a diverse and experienced team committed to building a better tomorrow for the people we serve.