Jordan tests the future of energy at King Talal Dam
On the waters of King Talal Dam, located about 70 km north of Amman in Jerash Governorate, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Jordan Valley Authority (JVA) are testing a technology that could transform the future of energy and water in the Kingdom: water-cooled floating solar panels.
This vital dam, which stores water that irrigates thousands of dunams of farmland, is only one step in a long journey. The results of the experiment will be used to design technical plans and feasibility studies for deploying floating solar systems in other dams, strengthening water and energy security, and reducing carbon emissions.
Innovation born from necessity
Jordan is among the most water-scarce countries in the world, and its water sector consumes a significant share of national energy. As temperatures rise each year and demand for water and electricity increases, institutions are searching for solutions that offer hope and ease the growing burden.
In the midst of these challenges, the project “Cost Reduction Through Improved Efficiency of Floating Solar Systems” began as a bold question:
If solar panels were placed over water, could they cool naturally and generate more electricity? And could they shade the water enough to prevent evaporation?
Early data says: Yes
From August 2025 to early November, the pilot system generated more than 730 kWh of electricity, which is used to power JVA facilities. More importantly, initial studies indicate an increase in generation efficiency ranging between 5% and 15% compared to ground-mounted solar panels.
On the water side, the impact could be even greater: thanks to the shade created by the panels, evaporation could be reduced by up to 90%.
Experts believe that floating solar systems could become a key part of Jordan’s green transition, especially given the country’s limited land resources and growing water and energy needs.
A visit that reveals the future
During a field visit organized by FAO and the Jordan Valley Authority (JVA), representatives from embassies, ministries, and local researchers stood above the dam, observing the floating panels up close. Sunlight reflected off the surface of the water as small fans and sensors continued collecting data that will determine the future of the technology in Jordan.
FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for the Near East and North Africa, Dr. Abdulhakim Elwaer, said the project “embodies a model of productive cooperation between national institutions and international organizations to support efficient energy and water management and to achieve water and food security.”
FAO Representative in Jordan, Eng. Nabil Assaf, noted: “This model provides a dual-benefit solution—we increase energy production and reduce water loss. It is a practical example of climate adaptation.”
For his part, Secretary-General of the Jordan Valley Authority, Eng. Hisham Al-Hisa, pointing to the structure of the floating system, emphasized that it has become part of the authority’s strategy to reduce energy costs, which constitute nearly 20% of operating expenses in the water sector. He added: “Today we are testing a model that could become a large-scale national project tomorrow.”
Secretary-General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Eng. Mohammad Al-Hiyari, also explained that “the project supports the ministry’s direction toward expanding clean energy use in irrigation and agricultural production.”