Amman: Director General of the National Electric Power Company (NEPCO), Sufyan Batayneh, made an inspection visit Thursday to the Risha 400/132 kV substation site and checked on progress on the second phase of the 400 kV Jordan-Iraq electrical interconnection project. Batayneh confirmed the current phase of the project is nearing completion and is expected to supply Iraq with approximately 150 to 200 megawatts of electricity.
According to Jordan News Agency, Batayneh discussed key challenges with the Transmission Projects Department, urging intensified efforts to complete civil works, equipment installation, and electrical testing to meet the targeted operational date of August 2025. Batayneh noted the importance of the Jordan-Iraq interconnection in enhancing energy security, deepening regional energy integration, and supporting broader economic and regional stability.
During the visit, Batayneh also inspected the Eastern Maintenance Department at the Azraq Electrical Maintenance Complex, accompanied by the assistant directors for transportation maintenance, transportation projects, and administrative affairs. In a meeting with staff, he reviewed ongoing operations in the Eastern Region, praising their contributions to advancing NEPCO's mission. Employees at the site expressed their commitment to achieving the company's vision and objectives.
In February 2024, Jordan and Iraq signed the first amendment to their electricity sales agreement, enabling the supply of 132 kV electricity to Iraq's Rutba area with an estimated load of 40 megawatts. Upon completion of the second phase, total supply capacity is expected to reach 150 to 200 megawatts, with potential expansion to 500 megawatts in future phases. The foundation stone for the Jordan-Iraq electrical interconnection project was laid on October 6, 2022.