Israel Backs Enlight’s 300 MW Agrivoltaic Project Near Gaza

In a significant move to bolster its renewable energy infrastructure and support sustainable agriculture, the Israeli government has approved a new national framework for agrivoltaics. This landmark decision paves the way for large-scale projects that combine solar power generation with farming and is highlighted by the government’s direct support for Enlight Renewable Energy’s ambitious 300 MW agrivoltaic initiative near the Gaza border.

A New National Framework for the Israel agrivoltaic project

The new national plan, developed through a collaboration between Israel’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the Planning Administration, establishes a clear and distinct regulatory pathway for agrivoltaic systems. According to a report from TaiyangNews, this framework separates the approval process for agrivoltaics from that of standard ground-mounted solar plants, recognizing their unique dual-purpose nature.

A critical component of this new regulation is the strict requirement for ongoing, active farming as a condition for a project’s operation. To ensure compliance, the framework includes provisions for monitoring and penalties, guaranteeing that the land continues to serve its primary agricultural purpose while also generating clean energy.

Spotlight on the 300 MW Enlight Israel agrivoltaic project

Immediately upon the plan’s approval, the government greenlit Enlight’s proposal for a major 300 MW project. This development will consist of two 150 MW projects situated on agricultural land in several moshavim, including Maon, Carmel, Beit Yatir, Yated, Talmei Yosef, Dekel, Shadi Avraham, and Peri Gan. These communities are located within the Merhavim and Eshkol Regional Councils near the Gaza border.

Significantly, the project will also incorporate energy storage capacity, a vital element for ensuring grid stability and a consistent power supply. This initiative represents a major investment in the region’s infrastructure and energy security.

The Synergy of Farming and Solar Power in the Israel agrivoltaic project

The strategic push towards agrivoltaics is driven by its numerous benefits for both climate resilience and agricultural productivity. The solar panels provide shade for crops, which can help reduce water usage and protect plants from extreme weather events. This innovative approach aims to improve overall adaptability to a changing climate, making farming more sustainable.

Rafi Elmaleh, Director General of the Planning Administration, emphasized the plan’s forward-thinking approach. He noted that the framework is a milestone in regional planning, successfully preserving open agricultural areas while simultaneously addressing the country’s rising energy demands and the challenges of climate change. By fostering a symbiotic relationship between energy and agriculture, Israel is setting a new standard for efficient and sustainable land use.