Watani Signs Deal to Supply Qatrana Cement Plant with Natural Gas

The Jordanian government is taking steps to diversify its energy sources and reduce reliance on conventional fuels. As part of this effort, Watani Company has signed a strategic agreement with Qatrana Cement to supply natural gas to the cement plant. The agreement was witnessed by Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Kharabsheh, who noted that it is part of the ministry's efforts to expand the use of natural gas in the industrial sector.

The project will involve the installation of an integrated gas reception system at the plant, including gas storage tanks, pressure reduction equipment, metering systems and other necessary technical equipment. The agreement includes the transportation of compressed natural gas (CNG) to the site in sealed tanks mounted on mobile trailers.

According to Kharabsheh, the ministry is working to expand the natural gas network to cover various industrial areas, with current agreements signed to supply natural gas to Al-Rawdah in Ma'an and Al-Muwaqqar. Studies are also being prepared to extend the network to Mafraq and Zarqa.

Watani Director General Khaled Al-Zoubi described the agreement as a 'strategic partnership' that reflects Watani's commitment to providing reliable supplies and integrated solutions for the industrial sector. Qatrana Cement CEO Amer Al-Khatib noted that the project is aimed at improving operational efficiency, diversifying energy sources, and reducing costs.

The gas supply is expected to begin in early 2027, with actual gas consumption ranging between 450,000 and 700,000 million British thermal units (MMBTU) during the first phase. The agreement will remain in effect for five years from the date of the first successful gas delivery and will be automatically renewed for an equivalent period.