Energy Sector Challenges for 2030

On February 9, 2020, the Aaron Institute held a roundtable discussion on the challenges facing the energy sector toward the year 2030. Dr. Sergei Sumkin, a senior researcher at the Aaron Institute, opened the discussion by introducing the enormous challenge facing the energy sector: in order to ensure energetic security and provide sufficient electricity to meet growing demands, electricity supply needs to be doubled over the upcoming decade.

According to research conducted at the Aaron Institute for Economic Policy by Prof. Zvi Eckstein, Dr. Sergei Sumkin and Dr. Hila Axelrad, achieving this goal requires formulation of a compelling work plan for the Israeli energy sector outlining executable goals for 2030, which will focus on the following objectives: improving the reliability of electricity supply, reducing environmental impact, optimizing electricity costs, and enhancing electric power quality. It was also recommended that this plan be based on a quantitative model which enables examination of alternative development options. The presentation was followed by comments from speakers including Mr. Udi Adiri, Director General of the Ministry of Energy, who referred to fuel mix and the transition to cleaner energy; Dr. Assaf Eilat, Chairperson of the Public Utility Authority for Electricity, who noted three current trends in the energy industry: greener (ie. less polluting), more decentralized, and more digitized; and Mr. Ofer Bloch, President and CEO of the Israel Electric Corporation, who spoke of the power grid's reliability and planned investments. Other commentators included Ministry of Finance representatives, scholars, and representatives from energy companies. Comments and pursuant discussion focused on whether and how it would be possible to devise objectives for the energy sector addressing Israel's energetic needs for the upcoming decade, in order to ensure energetic security and economic growth.

To view all materials (in Hebrew), click here