Palestinian Energy Authority Partners with Belgian Agency to Boost Renewable Energy

Ramallah: The Palestinian Energy and Natural Resources Authority (PENRA) has signed a cooperation agreement with the Belgian Development Agency (ENABEEL) to initiate a project aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and adopting renewable energy practices in Palestinian local authorities and industries. The project, titled "Enhancing Sustainability by Enabling Adaptations in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Measures in Palestinian Local Authorities and Industries," will run from 2024 to 2026. According to Maan News Agency, the agreement was signed in the presence of the Belgian Consul General. This initiative is supported by a grant from the Belgian government and targets various sectors, including local government units and the industrial sectors, particularly those involved in stone, marble, and food production. The project's objective is to reduce the environmental impact and greenhouse gas emissions while improving sustainable energy practices across these sectors. The project is set to deliver multi ple benefits, including the enhancement of technical expertise among staff and stakeholders within the Palestinian energy sector and the promotion of green practices among local authorities through incentive packages. It also aims to increase energy efficiency in the industrial sector, thereby boosting the competitiveness of these industries and supporting a more sustainable circular economy. Eng. Zafer Melhem, Chairman of PENRA, thanked the Belgian Development Agency for its support and highlighted the increasing demand for electricity in Palestine, which grows by 5-7% annually. Melhem emphasized the challenges posed by this demand, particularly due to the reliance on imported electricity and the inadequate infrastructure currently in place. "Our project is an essential step towards achieving our goals by adopting energy efficiency and renewable energy measures," Melhem stated. Ms. Christelle Jucke, Director of the Palestine Office at the Belgian Development Agency, reiterated the agency's commitment to re ducing the environmental footprint and improving the quality of life in Palestine. "This project represents an investment in energy solutions and is also a vital step towards building resilience and a sustainable future for our communities," Jucke commented.