Jordan currently faces a serious energy challenge because it lacks domestic energy resources and exhibits an ever greater demand for energy to fuel its social and economic development. The demand for energy in Jordan is increasing at a rate of 3% annually and close to 7% in terms of the demand for electricity.

The domestic sector in Jordan accounts for around 40% of the total electricity consumption in the country and this is expected to increase with the growth of the population, economic growth and the number of households using electrical appliances. The Jordanian Cabinet has approved a national energy efficiency strategy, which proposes certain measures in order to reduce the burden of imported oil on the Jordanian economy. This project proposes to introduce technical norms that will set minimum standards for the energy efficiency of imported and locally manufactured equipment.

With the cooperation of Jordanian counterparts, UNDP will assist the Government of Jordan to establish an energy labeling system and set a Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) programme for household appliances in the country. This project is also in line with the Jordan Common Country Assessment, which recommends maximizing the efficient use of energy and the use of renewable energy.