RSS, Norwegian delegation explore energy, science, innovation cooperation

AMMAN — Senior staff from the Royal Scientific Society (RSS) met on Tuesday with a high-level delegation from prominent Norwegian companies working in the energy and green technology sectors, according to a statement from the society. 

Deputising for HRH Princess Sumaya, President of the RSS, Vice President for Technologies for Sustainable Development (CTO) at the RSS Bassam Hayek received the delegation at the RSS in Amman on the sidelines of the state visit by King Harald V and Queen Sonja of Norway to Jordan. 

The two sides discussed areas of joint cooperation in the sectors of energy, water, environment, applied research, innovation and entrepreneurship, the statement said.

Hayek emphasised the role of scientific and research institutions, as well as civil society organisations, in providing innovative and feasible solutions to current development challenges. 

He also stated the need to prepare youth for actively participating in the rapidly growing technological revolution by foreseeing future challenges.

CEO of the Norwegian Solar Energy Cluster Trine Kopstad Berentsen expressed her hopes to explore new areas for cooperation in the solar energy sector.

"We, on behalf of about 100 partner companies, are looking forward to initiating new partnerships through which we can create new opportunities in Jordan,” the statement quoted Berentsen as saying.

"We at EDAMA look to the RSS as an important strategic partner in all aspects related to the energy and environment sector, and we are pleased to let everyone know about the RSS' outstanding experience in these sectors," said Dureid Mahasneh, chairman of EDAMA Association for Energy, Water and Environment.

At the end of the meeting, the delegation toured the facilities and laboratories of the RSS’ National Energy Research Centre, which specialises in the field of renewable energy and energy efficiency. 

The guests also visited the RSS’ solar PV plant and the Higher Council for Science and Technology’s geothermal power generation plant.

The Norwegian Solar Energy Cluster is the Norwegian government’s most important tool for enterprise and industrial innovation and development, as it supports companies in strengthening their competitive advantage, promotes innovation and aims to help Norwegian companies to grow and find new markets, according to the statement.

The RSS is the largest scientific and technical institution in the Kingdom and offers a “unique” model through the presence of Princess Sumaya University for Technology and iPARK, which complement the role of RSS in creating an integrated and comprehensive innovation eco-system.