Jordan Times
Sunday, January 11, 2004
Companies submit offers to Iraqi electricity office in Amman
By Khalid Dalal
AMMAN — More than 40 local, regional and international companies interested in reconstructing the power network in Iraq contacted the Iraqi Coordination Office that was recently set up here.The director general of the state-run National Electrical Power Company (NEPCO), Ahmad Hiyasat, whose firm hosts the office, told The Jordan Times that the bureau has also received 12 offers from US companies to build power stations in Iraq.
"The office is receiving many inquiries and we hope it will help Iraqis coordinate with the international community to reconstruct their power network," he said.
The NEPCO chief indicated that the office is run by Iraqi officials and that Jordan is only offering the necessary facilities.
"It is part of the Kingdom's commitment to offer what it can to help Iraqis restore their normal life,” he said.
Hiyasat said that Jordanian electricity companies have a good chance to participate in rebuilding the Iraqi power network, mainly through entering in joint ventures with international firms.
Iraqi officials have earlier promised to give Jordanian firms priorities in carrying out electricity projects in their country.
In addition to taking part in rebuilding Iraq's electrical facilities, said Hiyasat, NEPCO is currently negotiating with authorities in Baghdad to start training Iraqi officials in the electricity sector.
The company, known for its highly-qualified staff, has since 1990s offered training and consultancy services in many Arab countries. NEPCO operates the bulk power network in Jordan and it provides services to the various distribution networks.
Iraq's daily electricity needs are estimated at 18,000 megawatts but less than 50 per cent of that are currently provided.
According to Iraqi figures, reconstructing the electricity network in the war-stricken country will cost between $8 to $10 billion this year with the figure expected to increase next year.