Ben Gurion Airport to install solar energy systems

The Israel Airports Authority plans to install a pilot 50-kilowatt solar energy system on a 500 square meters area at the long-term parking lot. The size of the project is limited to the amount of electricity that can be sold by private power producers to Israel Electric Corporation (IEC) (TASE: ELEC.B22).

The Airports Authority aims to earn NIS 400,000 a year from the system, which will provide electricity to the airport. The Airports Authority has not yet estimated the investment needed in the pilot project, which if successful, will be expanded to border terminals.

Airports Authority chairman Ovadia Eli said that the plan was part of a goal to turn Ben Gurion Airport into an environmental leader. "Solar energy is the cleanest renewable energy source known today, and does not pollute or make noise. We're pleased to have the opportunity to build this project, which will help the environment and generate profits, as well as saving us a lot of money," he said.

Planning for the solar energy project should last through the end of the year. At the same time, the Airports Authority is undertaking energy conservation measures to reduce its NIS 60 million energy cost by 15%, or NIS 7.5 million, in 2009.

Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on August 23, 2009

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