Israel Solar Energy Rooftop Program Aims for 2030 Targets
Israel’s Electricity Authority has unveiled an ambitious new rooftop solar initiative aiming to add up to 1.6 GW of capacity by 2030. The program marks a significant step in supporting Israel’s transition to clean energy by harnessing solar power and incentivizing widespread rooftop installations across the nation.
The initiative is set to launch in early 2025 and will run for three years. During this time, annual auctions will allocate capacity for new rooftop solar projects. These auctions will distribute 100 MW per year for smaller systems (10 kW to 400 kW) and 400 MW per year for larger systems (400 kW to 5 MW).
To ensure a balanced distribution of solar capacity, each auction will be split equally between the residential and commercial sectors. This approach is designed to encourage broad participation from both homeowners and businesses, maximizing the initiative’s impact and reach.
Lower Electricity Costs Through Israel Solar Energy Auctions
The Electricity Authority anticipates that these auctions will lead to a significant reduction in electricity tariffs. Current projections suggest average tariffs could drop to NIS 0.32 ($0.08)/kWh for smaller systems and NIS 0.30/kWh for larger ones, making solar energy more affordable for a wider range of consumers.
Israel has been steadily ramping up its solar capacity, adding approximately 1.2 GW in 2024 to bring its total installed capacity to around 6.9 GW. This growth aligns with the country’s broader efforts to shift toward renewable energy and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
The new rooftop solar initiative builds on these efforts by providing a clear framework for adding substantial capacity over the next six years. Its 1.6 GW target represents a significant boost to the country’s solar infrastructure, positioning Israel as a regional leader in renewable energy development.
Building on Previous Large-Scale Solar Initiatives
In 2023, Israel initiated a large-scale rooftop solar program in partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and EDF Renewables Israel. Considered a milestone in the country’s renewable energy transition, the project focused on installing solar systems on public buildings and educational institutions.
Partly financed by the EBRD through a senior loan to Israel Infrastructure Partners, the program aims to generate 48 GWh of electricity annually—enough to power approximately 11,000 households. This output highlights the potential for rooftop solar to contribute significantly to Israel’s energy mix.
The initiative also supports Israel’s broader environmental goals by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By generating clean energy, the program displaces the equivalent of 20,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year. This reduction aligns with national climate targets and underscores the role of renewable energy in combating global environmental challenges.
The expertise of EDF Renewables Israel, a subsidiary of French utility giant EDF, is crucial for overseeing the installation and management of these rooftop solar systems and ensuring the program’s success.
Israel’s new rooftop solar program is a critical component of the country’s renewable energy strategy. With a target of 1.6 GW of capacity by 2030, the initiative will enhance access to clean energy while cutting electricity costs. As it rolls out in 2025, the program will be instrumental in helping Israel meet its climate commitments and transition to a more sustainable energy future.
