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Compare the picture on the right, with the photo on my post regarding Cleantech Meetup #3. What’s the difference? Probably 50 people…
A little over 3 months ago, ICV’s Jonathan Shapira and Gene Dolgin initiated the Israel Cleantech Meetup group. Each meetup being a networking opportunity for Israel’s growing Cleantech community.
Today’s meetup hosted Dr. Isaac Berzin, the founder of Boston-based GreenFuel Technologies. Dr. Berzin discussed his current plans to establish an Institute for Alternative Energy Policy in Israel, as part of the IDC in Herzelia, as well as answer many algae-related questions.
Next meetup will definitely require a microphone.
We all knew if was being discussed. We knew there were major objections and obstacles, and we knew it was near, so, so near, but FINALLY it is here! Of course, I’m referring to the official approved solar feed-in tarrif or 2.01 NIS/kWh, which ~4x the current price of electricity here in Israel.
How will it work? Starting July 1st, when I install a PV system at home, the electric company will buy all electricity generated at the rate of 2.01, guaranteed for 20 years. In the evening (or when there is no sun), we will purchase electricity for the going rate. At the end of the month, a balance is paid (although, I haven’t understood what happens if I’ve generated more electricity that I’ve used – do they pay me???). Essentially, the same principal as Spain and Germany.
So does this make PV installations in Israel economical? According to the government publications, this should adopters a 14% IRR over a 20 year period. So not only the satisfaction of using a renewable, clean resource, but also a worthwhile investment.
Let the sun shine!
…Actually he’s 18 from 1100, and I’m referring to my former partner Adi Pundak-Mintz, one of the chosen 18 for the 2008 Yale World Fellows Program. The World Fellows Program aims to build a worldwide network of emerging leaders and broaden international understanding. Adi will join 17 other accomplished men and women from government, business, the media and civil society organizations representing countries across the globe for a four-month leadership program at Yale.
I was actually going to blog about various ways to pass one’s mid-life crisis, using the Yale World Fellows Program as an example, but changed my mind. It’s the result of a desire to make a difference!
Congratulations Adi!
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