The Jerusalem Electric Company has inaugurated a $4 million solar power plant in Jericho, providing clean electricity for 1,000 homes and reducing annual carbon emissions by over 6,000 tons. This project supports Palestine’s goal of reaching 25% renewable energy by 2030 and highlights the region’s commitment to sustainable development and energy independence.
Launch of the Solar Power Station
On Tuesday, the Jerusalem Electric Company officially opened the solar power station in Aqabat Jaber Camp, southwest of Jericho. This $4 million project marks a renewed focus on environmental alternatives to traditional power sources. The inauguration ceremony featured key representatives from the Palestinian Authority, including Minister of National Economy Hisham Al-Amri, who is also Chairman of the Jerusalem Electric Company; General Manager Mohammed Zidan; Dr. Hussein Hamail, Governor of Jericho and the Jordan Valley; and Engineer Thafer Melhem, Chairman of the Palestinian Energy and Natural Resources Authority. Other notable attendees included Dr. Firas Melhem, Governor of the Palestinian Monetary Authority; Mahmoud Al-Shawa, General Manager of Bank of Palestine; and many international guests. The diverse attendance underscored the broad support for this significant step toward sustainable energy in the region.
Advancing Renewable Energy in Jerusalem
Engineer Zidan emphasized that this solar power plant is a vital first step toward achieving energy independence and sustainability. The plant will generate clean power for approximately 1,000 homes, cut more than 6,000 tons of carbon emissions annually, and create thousands of new jobs. The project is part of a wider goal to increase solar energy’s contribution to the energy mix to 25% over the next five years. This strategic vision focuses on three key areas: reducing carbon output, enhancing the reliability and security of the power grid, and maximizing the social and economic benefits of renewable energy. Engineer Thafer Melhem highlighted the Palestinian government’s commitment to energy security and diversification, noting that it aims to boost local energy production through private investment in renewables, particularly solar. He stressed that government support remains essential to making these initiatives successful and sustainable.
Economic Impact of Solar Energy
According to Engineer Zidan, the cost of generating electricity at the new solar power plant is expected to be significantly lower than in the past. “When we installed this plant, the international cost of solar was around 25 to 26 cents per kilowatt hour. Today, it’s around 4.4 cents,” Zidan noted. Manufacturing and installation costs have dropped dramatically, making solar energy a more viable option. Investment in solar energy is expected to improve the region’s energy security, reduce dependence on imports, and promote environmental sustainability. The Palestinian Energy and Natural Resources Authority has mapped various solar projects across the Palestinian territories, including rooftop solar panel installations on mosques, government schools, and hospitals. These projects, some of which are financed by the Islamic Development Bank, aim to reduce both electricity bills and their environmental impact.
Promoting Solar Energy Projects
While the new solar power plant represents a significant achievement, challenges remain. Obstacles include the private sector’s limited capacity to handle large infrastructure projects and the ongoing need for investment. However, the country remains committed to developing renewable energy, planning to invest $7.6 billion in these efforts by 2030. ”This project aligns with the strategy of the Monetary Authority in financing green projects,” said Dr. Firas Melhem, Governor of the Palestinian Monetary Authority. He noted that the “Sustainability Plus” program, which has provided zero-interest loans for more than 2,300 projects, demonstrates the Authority’s dedication to green energy. The inauguration of this solar power plant signifies a new era for the region, reinforcing its commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development. As Palestine moves toward a solar-powered future, government agencies, the private sector, and international partners are joining forces to make these projects viable, laying the foundation for a major leap toward green energy.
