The session followed the publication of ARIJ’s in-depth investigation, “Electricity distribution companies hamper solar energy projects in the West Bank” by journalist Ansar Tomizy. The report revealed significant challenges faced by Palestinians in the West Bank as they attempt to install solar energy systems to reduce their electricity costs and use clean and renewable energy, due to obstacles put in place by the local electricity providers.
The session, organized by the Coalition for Integrity and Accountability (AMAN), aimed to foster an in-depth dialogue among all relevant stakeholders—including officials, investors, and consumers—to better understand the barriers to connecting renewable energy projects and explore possible solutions to ensure the implementation of public policy. The discussion also aimed to accelerate the transition to clean energy in Palestine. However, both the Ministry of Local Government and The Palestinian Electricity Sector Regulatory Council were absent from the session, despite being invited and holding key roles in the issue.
While talking about renewable energy in Palestine, it should be noted that relying on solar energy is an option to reduce dependence on Israel, as the Palestinian territories are almost completely dependent on electricity imported from the Israeli Electricity Company (IEC) by more than 90 percent. This reality reinforces economic dependence and increases the burden on the Palestinian government. According to Zafer Melhem, head of the Palestinian Energy Authority, electricity debts owed to the Israeli side amounted to about one billion shekels (more than $350 million) until August 2024.
