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Explore the importance of solar energy in Israel, from environmental benefits to national security. Learn about the history of solar energy in the country, current policies, and future initiatives driving sustainable development. Discover how Israel is leveraging solar power to pave the way for innovation.
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Sense and Sustainability The Importance of Solar Energy & Innovation to Israel
Why Solar? • Environmental Benefits • National Security • Geography • Physical Geography: High levels of solar irradiance; longer days • Political Geography: hostile neighbors, lack of oil
History of Solar Energy in Israel • National Laboratory dedicated to solar energy • Energy Crises led to increased adoption of solar water heaters • Other institutions dedicated to other types of solar energy • Nanotechnology & organic solar • Concentrated Solar Power on industrial scale
Current Policies & New Initiatives • Feed-in tariff implemented in 2008 to encourage investment in solar energy infrastructure • All new buildings required to use solar water heaters • Israeli power company, Arave Power Company, is building a solar field for Bedouin communities • Financed by OPIC • Seen as model for sustainable development in indigenous communities
Future of the Industry • Israel has laid the groundwork for future innovation in solar energy • Israeli Universities provide R&D services • Several companies leading the way, including Zenith Solar, Brightsource, and Israeli Cleantech Ventures