July 13, 2024

Enlight Expands Israel Solar Storage in Gaza Border Communities

Amidst ongoing regional conflict, Enlight Renewable Energy has advanced Israel’s energy security by bringing two new solar-plus-storage facilities online in communities bordering the Gaza Strip. The company announced the successful commercial operation of the Yesha and Re’im projects, which collectively add 16 MW of solar generation and 94 MWh of battery storage capacity to the national grid.

These installations, Enlight’s eighth and ninth in the country, are strategically crucial for enhancing the resilience of communities that have faced power disruptions. Since October 2023, the company has connected four such projects in the region, underscoring a commitment to providing a stable power supply in vulnerable areas. The integration of battery storage is vital for grid stability, allowing for the capture of solar energy during the day and its dispatch during peak demand or grid outages.

The commissioning of these sites is a key step in Enlight’s broader plan to significantly scale its domestic operations. By the close of 2024, the company aims to operate a total of 12 integrated facilities across Israel. This expansion is projected to deliver approximately 250 MW of generation capacity and 600 MWh of energy storage. According to company reports, this storage capacity alone will contribute an estimated 12% toward Israel’s national solar storage targets, marking a substantial contribution to the country’s transition away from fossil fuels.

Financially, the new projects are expected to be highly productive, with Enlight forecasting revenues of $35 million to $36 million and an EBITDA of $24 million to $25 million within their first year of operation. Beyond grid-scale impact, a portion of the clean electricity will be supplied directly to Israeli households and small businesses through a partnership with Electra Power (Supergaz), making renewable energy more accessible to the public.

This initiative not only strengthens Israel’s energy independence but also highlights the viability of deploying advanced solar infrastructure in challenging security environments. By ensuring a consistent and locally generated power source, Enlight is reinforcing both the economic and civil fortitude of the Gaza border communities.