The Unique Relationship of Israel with Solar Hot Water Production
Using the power of the sun to produce hot water is one of the simplest methods—if not the simplest. With water heating consuming about 40% of a household’s monthly energy bill, the savings (in energy and therefore money) achieved are significant. The use of solar energy is a step toward the country’s energy independence.
Necessity is the mother of invention!
The use of solar energy was a top priority for Israel from the very beginning of the nation’s founding. Guidelines for the use of solar energy were issued in 1980, making Israel the first country to mandate that all new homes be equipped with a system for producing heat—domestic hot water—from the sun. The plan was to reduce the country’s dependence on imported energy, given the absence of confirmed and exploitable fossil fuel reserves.
Today, the installed capacity of thermal production systems provides 8% of the country’s total energy needs! A combination of economies of scale, along with public education and awareness, has led to a significant reduction in the production cost of the necessary equipment. On average, an investment in such systems pays off in just 3 years. Solar water heaters and similar heat-producing systems from the sun are installed in 90% of Israeli households, forming a completely standard and obvious infrastructure. Some buildings have even managed to supply all their energy needs from the sun—not just hot water production.
This arid country is not only a leader in solar heat production but also in water recycling and reuse. Despite its small size, significant resources were invested in research on wastewater management. Around 70% of the water is reused!
All the strategies described above have contributed to Israel being recognized as a leader in the field of sustainable energy, proving that clean energy is not only sustainable but essential to enhancing energy independence.
With the prices of all other fuels—and thus energy sources—having risen dramatically in recent times, it is imperative that all countries follow Israel’s example, even those that do not enjoy maximum sunlight. For Greece and other Mediterranean countries, the direction they should take is unquestionable.
Based on information from: Reuters Article image: GreenBiz
MSc in Environmental Education
Specialization in Educational Robotics and STEM
Specialization in E-learning and Educational Content Production
Certified Adult Educator
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