Israel and Egypt are discussing a massive joint solar project in Egypt’s Sinai Desert, according to Israel’s Industry, Trade and Labor Minister.
Speaking during the the Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference today, Binyamin Ben Eliezer said during his recent visit to Egypt he launched discussions with Egypt’s President Hosni Mubarak about the possibility of establishing a project that would provide enough energy for both Israel and Egypt.
“Egypt has the requisite space and Israel would contribute its technological know-how,” said Ben-Eliezer.
Egypt’s Sinai Desert is a prime location for the establishment of a mega-solar project with its clear skies, flat topography and annual average solar concentration of 2,300 KWh per square meter.
Also speaking at the conference, Mr. Salah Azzam, Director of the Bio-Fuels Division at the National Energy Research Center in Jordan, outlined his plans for the establishment of an Israeli-Jordanian bio-diesel plant by the end of 2010. The plant would be built along the border between Jordan and Israel and will be operated by representatives from both countries.
“This project could serve as a great boost for establishing peace and security in the region and could promote peace efforts between Israel and its neighbors,” said Azzam.
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