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Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Conference to Showcase the Future of Smart Grid Technology

International Team of Smart Grid Pioneers to Present their Vision of Smart Grid's Impact on Electric Power Network

(Eilat, Israel – 4 February, 2010) The Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference (www.eilatenergy.com), one of the world’s most important renewable energy events, announced today that at this year's conference, to be held in Eilat from February 16-18, the world's leading smart grid experts will present their vision of the future of the smart grid and the global impact it will have on reducing the world's energy usage.

The smart grid experts set to participate in the Eilat-Eilot Conference include Mr. Guido Bartels, General Manager, Global Energy and Utilities Industry, IBM and Chairman of the Gridwise Alliance, who will be presenting his plan of how smart grid technology will reinvent the electric power network, Mr. Louis de Bruin, Communications Sector Solutions Sales, IBM Software Group, who will be addressing the architecture needed for smarter energy utility and Bazmi Husain, Head of Smart Grids, at ABB Asea Brown Boveri Ltd. IBM’s enthusiastic participation follows a brainstorming meeting to discuss the US-Israel Smart Grid Initiative held on Jan 27, organized by iConsortium (The Israel Energy& Security Consortium).

The Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration will discuss the next steps towards the development of a smart grid system for the Eilat-Eilot Region at the conference, including the establishment of partnerships with leading smart grid technology companies from around the world. Meanwhile, the Israel Electric Corporation, which recently launched its smart grid initiative for commercial and industrial consumers through the implementation of a Distributed Management System, will use the conference to unveil the next steps it will take towards expanding its smart grid program, including the installation of some 6,000 "smart meters" at selected sites across the country.

"Smart Grid technology represents one of the most promising and exciting areas of energy efficiency initiatives, and we expect Israel to be one of the leading forces in advancing practical uses for this revolutionary technology," said Noam Ilan, Director of Business Development for the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration. "With exciting companies such as Shai Agassi's Project Better Place and Arnold Goldman’s BrightSource Energy, which will take full advantage of Israel's smart grid infrastructure, Israel is poised to bring about positive change in terms of implementing large-scale smart grid initiatives around the world. We are working to establish a smart grid in the Eilat Eilot region, which could serve as a global testing platform for advanced smart grid technologies and allow for higher percentages of effectively used renewable energy on Israel's national grid."

The conference will also feature a number of Israeli "smart grid" companies, such as Computerized Electricity Systems (CES), a company focused on advancing efficient management of electricity consumption through the installation of comprehensive and user friendly smart distribution panels; GridON, a company developing a high temperature superconducting Fault Current Limiter device that protects the grid from power disruptions and outages at the substations; and GreenLet Technologies, which is developing a highly-integrated system for the Smart Grid market, using internet, IT and power electronics and PowerCom, a start-up which has been successful in implementing an advanced, reliable and secured DynamicPLC communication system. PowerCom will demonstrate its system in the Renewable Energy Validation Center at the Arava Institute.

The 2010 Conference will advance the planned US-Israel Smart Grid Initiative, a joint effort of the America-Israel Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inc. and New York State Economic Development Corporation to promote collaboration, joint R&D and strategic corporate alliances.

"New York and Israel share an entrepreneurial spirit and love of problem solving," says Ronny Bassan, the Chamber's Executive Vice President. "The America-Israel Chamber of Commerce and New York State have embraced the need for energy efficiency and related technology. We see tremendous opportunities for Israeli companies in building, operating and securing a smart electric power grid."

The Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Conference, organized by the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration in association with iConsortium and the Technologies Company, focuses on the latest innovations in renewable energy. Conference participants include internationally-recognized alternative energy companies, experts and investors from around the world. Some of the topics to be explored at the conference include renewable energy development in Israel, solar power, policies and regulations, energy conservation, and renewable energy technology.

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About the Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference

The Conference is an international forum encouraging discussion and debate of policies, technology, business and investment practices to lead to cost effective, doable solutions. Conference participants include leading researchers in alternative energy, government officials and policy-makers, internationally-recognized alternative energy companies and world-renowned speakers from business and academia. Over 2,000 attendees and dozens of journalists are expected to be in attendance. Some of the topics to be explored at the conference include: Renewable development in Israel, solar power, policies and regulations, energy conservation, and renewable energy technology. The conference is organized in partnership between the Eilat Eilot Renewable Energy Administration and the Technologies Company.

Follow us on Twitter: @eilateilot

To learn more about the conference, please visit http://www.eilatenergy.org

To schedule an interview with an executive from the Eilat Eilot Renewable Energy Administration, please contact Matthew Krieger (see below):

Media Contacts:
Ruder Finn Israel for Eilat-Eilot Energy Conference
Matthew Krieger
Cell: + 972-54-467-6950
Office: + 972-2-589-2003
Email: matthew@ruderfinn.co.il

Governor David A. Paterson today announced an unprecedented clean energy project that will more than quintuple the amount of solar energy currently produced in New York State, and will foster the development of solar technologies, support public sustainability efforts and stimulate the economy with new clean energy jobs throughout the State.

"A sustainable future for New York requires bold initiatives which will increase the deployment of clean energy," Governor Paterson said. "The New York Power Authority's advancement of this, the largest solar initiative in State history, aligns with the State Energy Plan's direction to increase in-State energy supplies. In doing so, this initiative will support growth in the clean energy industry and promote job creation, diversify our energy portfolio and support our energy independence."

The New York Power Authority (NYPA) issued a request for proposals (RFP) seeking a public-private partnership for the installation of up to 100 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic (PV) systems across the State, including roof-mounted and ground-mounted solar arrays. Facilities will be installed primarily at schools, public universities and colleges, State and local government facilities, municipal electric utilities and rural electric cooperatives. This initiative will boost the State's growing solar industry, create clean energy jobs and support efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of State and local public facilities by reducing greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 45,000 tons per year. When fully installed, this project will be the largest solar initiative in State history and will generate the equivalent of powering approximately 15,000 homes.

President and Chief Executive Officer of NYPA Richard M. Kessel said: "Through this solar initiative, the New York Power Authority is working toward Governor Paterson's '45 by 15' goal and helping to build the solar industry in New York State. This initiative will advance the development of the solar industry and clean energy jobs throughout the State, and will help diversify our energy sources and incorporate green power educational opportunities for our schools."

In addition to providing clean power to host facilities, the initiative will include the development of large scale, "Community Solar" projects that will connect to the distribution systems of municipal utilities and rural electric cooperatives. Community Solar projects utilize available space to generate power for electric distribution grids rather than a single host site. Renewable energy can then be transmitted to any loads connected to the grid. These large scale projects can reduce costs by providing relief for electric grids nearing their capacity and avoiding expensive facility upgrades.

The Power Authority is soliciting proposals from developers to install, own and operate PV arrays, and to sell all the energy and environmental attributes to NYPA subject to a 20-year power purchase agreement. NYPA will then enter into contracts with the project hosts, such as the school where the PV array is located, for the distribution of green power. Installation of the solar photovoltaic projects is expected to begin in 2010 and be completed by the end of 2014.

Specifically, the RFP calls for bids related to four separate categories and five separate regions. Bidders can submit proposals for one or more regions in one or more categories. The categories include: government facilities, including public colleges and universities; public and private K-12 schools; and parking lot canopies at any governmental, educational facilities and facilities in the municipal and rural cooperative territories. The regions are Western New York, Northern New York, Central New York, Southeast New York and New York City.

The deadline for RFP responses is April 9. Recommendations for an award are expected to be made at the September meeting of NYPA's Board of Trustees.

A Proposers' Conference will be held at NYPA offices in White Plains on February 9 where NYPA staff will provide an overview of key elements of the RFP and answer questions from interested parties. RFP documents and further details of the conference will be posted on NYPA's website at www.nypa.gov/solar/100mw.

Governor Paterson's '45 by 15' program is one of the nation's most aggressive energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives. By 2015, New York State will receive 45 percent of its electricity through energy efficiency and clean renewable energy. It is conservatively estimated that this program will create 50,000 new jobs throughout the State.

In advancement of this bold plan, NYPA has installed or is undertaking projects to install nearly 50 PV systems throughout the State with a combined capacity of three megawatts. Just in the past few months alone, NYPA has initiated solar projects with the University at Buffalo and the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority. This statewide 100 MW Solar Project will significantly enhance the Power Authority's commitment to the advancement of the solar industry in New York State.

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Request For Proposals 100-MW Statewide Photovoltaic Initiative

I. Introduction and Background

The New York Power Authority ("Authority") is a corporate municipal instrumentality and political subdivision of the State of New York that provides low-cost electricity to governmental agencies, municipal electric systems, rural electric cooperatives, manufacturers and to investor-owned utilities for resale without profit to retail customers across New York State. The Authority operates 18 generating facilities and more than 1,400 circuit-miles of transmission lines. In addition, the Authority is a nationally recognized leader in the field of energy services including the development of clean and renewable energy technologies and the promotion of energy efficiency. It has committed more than $100 million per year to energy services with cumulative investments aggregating to more than $1.1 billion since the program's inception.

In connection with the Authority's commitment to the environment and in support of Governor Paterson's "45 by 15" goal Information on Governor Paterson's 45 by 15 goal can be found at http://www.state.ny.us/governor/press/factsheet_0107092.html, the Authority is seeking the development of 100 MW of distributed solar photovoltaic generating facilities ("SGF") to be installed primarily at schools, government facilities and other Authority customer locations throughout New York State. All SGF will be installed, owned and operated by a solar developer who will sell all energy and environmental attributes to the Authority subject to a 20 year power purchase agreement. Installation of the SGF is expected to begin in 2010, and all SGF are anticipated to be in service by December 31, 2014.

II. Calendar of Events

Following is a listing of key events and target dates for this Request for Proposal ("RFP"):

III. Initiative Overview

The Authority's 100 MW Statewide Solar Photovoltaic Initiative ("Initiative") is designed to support a total of 100 MW of SGF development through numerous distributed systems installed statewide. Through this RFP, the Authority is seeking to identify and select Solar PV developer(s) with whom it will execute Allocation Agreements and Power Purchase Agreements ("PPA") totaling up to 100 MW of SGF.

It is the objective of the Initiative that a total of 100 MW of SGF will be installed by one or more developers under contract to the Authority at locations ("Host Sites") throughout New York State. Specifically, the SGF will be installed at locations of Authority customers, including schools, public universities and colleges, state and local government facilities, municipal electric utilities and rural electric cooperatives ("Hosts"). Authority customers include organizations that purchase electricity directly from the Authority, retail electric consumers that receive energy from the Authority on a sale-for-resale basis and entities eligible to participate in the Authority's Energy Services program. Please see Appendix A for more detail on Authority customers.

If any you have administrative questions, please e-mail us at admin@nypasolarrfp.org.

*Potential Bidders are requested to advise the Authority by email at admin@NYPASolarRFP.org of their planned attendance.

Israel's south could be global clean tech's beta site

By Karin Kloosterman

Israel still has work ahead to develop its own clean tech, organizers of the Renewable Energy Conference in Eilat tout the country as a global beta site.

Photo courtesy of Shay Levy/Flash90.

With its year-round sunshine and high temperatures, Eilat and the region are a perfect location for the deployment of alternative energy projects.

While Israel generates numerous headlines as a solar energy innovator, the country still has plans to build additional coal plants, and there's relatively little production of renewable and alternative energy on its turf. International media, investors and policy makers have been asking why this is so and hopefully some answers will emerge from an annual coming together of minds in Eilat from February 16 to 18.

Dorit Banet, a co-chair of the upcoming Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Conference, tells ISRAEL21c that she hopes the conference will help Israel to color itself greener at home, through education, relationship building and business networking. For three days in February, expect to meet international powerhouses and renewable energy innovators as they converge on Israel's sunny southern city of Eilat.

Banet was head of the environmental unit in the sunny Eilat-Eilot region located in the southernmost tip of Israel. As she contemplated the region's business and energy potential, she realized that much more could be done with respect to renewable energy.

Israel as the beta site for clean tech

With summer highs reaching a scorching 113 degrees F, the region is perfect for the deployment of alternative energy projects like solar energy. Back in 2007, Banet and her handpicked partner Noam Ilan held the first energy conference in Eilat and followed it up with another energy conference last year.

"The focus here, what we really want to achieve, is to be the place where things are happening," she tells ISRAEL21c. "We want to improve this field of knowledge. After the first conference in 2007, people put their money into building a strategic plan. Last year's event was to say, 'here is the initiative, the government is with us and here is the knowledge.'"

This year, she says, with an estimated turnout of 1,500 people, the conference organizers are saying: "We are the beta site for clean technology. We know the potential after Copenhagen. The world should enter a new era and aim for 350 parts per million greenhouse gases in the atmosphere by 2050. This is one of our main goals. We want to put the innovation out front."

Through the conference, she continues, "we want to show how we can be the beta site and how we can be bankable."

Emphasizing Israeli innovation

In the year 2010 says Banet, the emphasis will be on regulations: "How we can build, and put together big solar power stations. The second emphasis will be on Israeli innovation - how this market can be the mainstay of Israeli income for years to come.

"All the world emphasizes the need for innovation in renewable energy and energy efficiency. Those two together can provide the answer to the energy crisis. We want Israeli clean tech to be at the forefront here and all over the world. We want to give it more exposure, and we want the government to understand how it can help [innovators] take the first steps in Israel."

The speakers invited are expected to spark discourse about and contribute their expertise to innovation, policy and implementation. Companies such as Siemens, Schott Solar and the Chinese solar company Suntech are expected to attend and participate.

Other high profile guests expected include US Ambassador to Israel Richard Jones; Prof. Robert (Yisrael) Aumann, a Nobel Prize Laureate in Economics from Hebrew University; Michael Peevey, president of the California Public Utility Commission; and Prof. David Faiman, the internationally acclaimed Israeli researcher on solar energy from Ben Gurion University.

Local innovators, global goals

Banet emphasizes that the conference is a global event. All discussion about implementation, policy and regulation will be meant to address a global environment, not just what's happening locally in Israel. Meanwhile, experts such as Kateri Callahan from the Alliance to Save Energy in Washington will explore different financing models for renewable energy. Banet expects this to be of interest to financiers from Europe and North America.

"The interaction between big entrepreneurs, big financers, and local innovators is very important," she stresses, "and it is these three that the event will attract... a major part [of the attendees] will be from Europe, from large financing and other big companies that want to know what Israel has to offer."

There will also be time to go outdoors and enjoy this sunny retreat city in the name of business and networking: Local solar energy companies like Aora are expected to strut their solar stuff. Located in the Eilat area, those interested will be able to visit Aora and its ultra-high temperature-concentrating solar power technology that focuses sunlight on a flower-like bulb high in the sky.

Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference to Showcase the Future Leaders of the Solar Industry

Israeli Companies to Present Promising Solar Power Technologies

The Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference (www.eilatenergy.com), one of the world’s most important renewable energy events, announced today that eleven emerging Israeli solar companies will present their innovative technologies at the conference, which will be held February 16-18 in Eilat, Israel.

As one of the solar industry's leading annual events, the Eilat Eilot Renewable Energy Conference represents an important opportunity for promising solar companies to showcase their technologies, build strategic new partnerships and seek out potential new investments.

The solar companies, which include B-Solar Ltd., Advanced Solar Power, MST, Verilite, Solaris Synergy, 3GSolar, SolarEdge Technologies, HelioFocus.,Pythagoras Solar, SolarOr, AORA and BrightView, highlight Israel's role as a global leader in the field of solar energy development.

Many of these companies will be participating in the exclusive Renewable Energy Validation Center at the Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation of the Arava Institute, which will be officially launched at this year's conference by the Minster of National Infrastructures Dr. Uzi Landau. The Eilat Eilot Renewable Energy Initiative, in partnership with renewable energy leader Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, will incubate Israeli renewable energy technology companies, serve as a zone for pilots and testing, and commercialize academic research. The two partners are currently building a wider consortium that will apply for a five year, $25 million government tender for the construction of a renewable energy technological center.

"One of the most exciting and important aspects of the Eilat-Eilot conference and the Eilat-Eilot region is our ability to provide a prominent platform to promote these exciting technologies, as well as the support to develop their businesses," said Noam Ilan, Director of Technology & Business Development for the Eilat-Eilot Regional Renewable Energy Administration. “Their ever-increasing presence and inventive developments are testament to the entire cleantech industry that there is always more progress to be made, and that they are part of a revolutionary change in the way the world is powered."

In addition to solar energy, the conference will include presentations from start-ups in other fields relating to renewable energy development, including energy storage, wind energy, biofuel from algae, energy efficiency, and smart grid technology.

The Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Conference, organized by the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration in association with the Technologies Company, focuses on the latest innovations in renewable energy. Conference participants include internationally-recognized alternative energy companies, experts and investors from around the world. Some of the topics to be explored at the conference include renewable energy development in Israel, solar power, policies and regulations, energy conservation, and renewable energy technology.

For a list of all the innovative companies who will be participating at the conference, please visit http://eilatenergy.org/site/Companies.aspx

# # #

About the Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference

The Conference is an international forum encouraging discussion and debate of policies, technology, business and investment practices to lead to cost effective, doable solutions. Conference participants include leading researchers in alternative energy, government officials and policy-makers, internationally-recognized alternative energy companies and world-renowned speakers from business and academia. Over 2,000 attendees and dozens of journalists are expected to be in attendance. Some of the topics to be explored at the conference include: Renewable development in Israel, solar power, policies and regulations, and renewable energy technology. The conference is organized by the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration.

Follow us on Twitter: @eilateilot

To learn more about the conference, please visit http://www.eilatenergy.org

To schedule an interview with an executive from the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration, please contact Matthew Krieger (see below):

Media Contacts:
Ruder Finn Israel for Eilat-Eilot Energy Conference
Matthew Krieger
Cell: + 972-54-467-6950
Office: + 972-2-589-2003
Email: matthew@ruderfinn.co.il

Former Governor George E. Pataki and New York Congressman Steve Israel (D-NY) To Keynote Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference

Impressive Array of Dignitaries, Environmental Experts, and Cleantech Industry Leaders To Participate at Upcoming Event

01.12.2010 – (Eilat, Israel) The Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference (http://www.eilatenergy.org), one of the world’s most important renewable energy events, announced today that former governor George E. Pataki and New York Congressman Steve Israel (D-Huntington) will deliver keynote addresses at the conference, which will be held February 16-18 in Eilat, Israel.

Both Gov. Pataki and Rep. Israel have taken on significant leadership roles on issues involving renewable energy and climate change. Gov. Pataki currently serves as counsel at the law firm Chadbourne & Parke LLP, where his practice focuses on energy, environmental and corporate matters.

"Developing new renewable sources of energy will create stronger economies, a healthier environment, and in the long run, reduce conflict around the world," said Gov. Pataki. "The Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference plays an important role in advancing that effort."

During his 12-year tenure as chief executive of the State of New York, Gov. Pataki advanced award-winning, cutting-edge policies in the areas of renewable energy and the environment. His programs include the adoption of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, the implementation of America's first green building tax credit, the protection of over one million acres of open space, and multiple programs to enhance the production and use of alternative energy.

Rep. Israel is co-founder of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (S.E.E.C.), a strong voice in the U.S. House of Representatives focused on advancing policies that promote clean energy innovation, developing renewable energy resources, creating of green collar jobs, helping to arrest global warming and protecting America's clean air, water and natural environment. He has also secured federal funding for a variety of clean energy and biodiversity programs worldwide, including funding for international conservation programs that work with developing nations in the common goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Other dignitaries slated to address the conference include: Dr. Hermann Scheer, President, EUROSOLAR, General Chairman, World Council for Renewable Energy (WCRE), and German Parliamentarian; Ambassador Richard Jones, Deputy Executive Director, International Energy Agency (IEA); Michael R. Peevey, President of the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC); Israel Knesset Member Dr. Uzi Landau, Minister of National Infrastructures; Knesset Member Prof. Daniel Herskovitz, Minister of Science and Technology; and Nobel Prize Laureate Prof. Robert J. Aumann.

"We are very honored that Governor Pataki, Congressman Israel, and so many other prominent dignitaries and renewable energy leaders will be participating in our conference,” said Noam Ilan, Director of Technology & Business Development for Eilat-Eilot Regional Renewable Energy Project. “Their involvement underscores the importance of the Eilat-Eilot conference as one the world’s most significant forums for meaningful discourse on renewable energy."

In addition to Governor Pataki, additional speakers at the Eilat Eilot Conference from U.S.-based Chadbourne include Noam Ayali, a partner in the project finance practice, as well as Walter Hanchuk and John Squires, partners in the intellectual property practice.

The Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Conference, organized by the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration in association with the Technologies Company, focuses on the latest innovations in renewable energy. Conference participants include internationally-recognized alternative energy companies, experts and investors from around the world. Some of the topics to be explored at the conference include renewable energy development in Israel, solar power, policies and regulations, energy conservation, and renewable energy technology.

# # #

About the Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference

The Conference is an international forum encouraging discussion and debate of policies, technology, business and investment practices to lead to cost effective, doable solutions. Conference participants include leading researchers in alternative energy, government officials and policy-makers, internationally-recognized alternative energy companies and world-renowned speakers from business and academia. Over 2,000 attendees and dozens of journalists are expected to be in attendance. Some of the topics to be explored at the conference include: Renewable development in Israel, solar power, policies and regulations, and renewable energy technology. The conference is organized by the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration.

Follow us on Twitter: @eilateilot

To learn more about the conference, please visit http://www.eilatenergy.org

To schedule an interview with an executive from the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration, please contact Matthew Krieger (see below):

Media Contacts:
Ruder Finn Israel for Eilat-Eilot Energy Conference
Matthew Krieger
Cell: + 972-54-467-6950
Office: + 972-2-589-2003
Email: matthew@ruderfinn.co.il

Press Release
Eilat-Eilot Conference to Address Importance of Regulation as Tool for Achieving Global Renewable Energy Targets

Panel Takes on Added Importance Following Israel Electric Corp. Announcement That Subsidies to Solar Installation Companies Have Been Exhausted

Anticipate Announcement of New Subsidies Quota at the Eilat Event

(Eilat, Israel 17 December, 2009) The Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference (http://www.eilatenergy.org), one of the world’s most important renewable energy events, announced today that at this year’s forum, it will be addressing the important role that regulatory bodies play in helping achieve global renewable energy targets. This announcement comes following the recent unexpected revelation by the Israel Electric Corp. (IEC) that due to the rapid expansion of the Israeli solar energy market, it has finished the State’s quota for subsidizing solar installations undertaken by local companies and will no longer pay out incentives to future solar installations built on rooftops. The Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy conference will be held from February 16-18 in Eilat, Israel.

“As one of the leading voices on the future of the solar industry, we believe that it is not only necessary, but essential, that our conference address the important role that regulatory bodies play in the development of a nation’s solar capabilities,” said Noam Ilan, Director of Technology and Business Development for the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration. “This announcement from the IEC underscores the increasingly important role that solar produced energy is playing in Israel and the fact that the quota limit has been reached so quickly means that the industry in Israel is really starting to accelerate. We look forward to the next quotas that will be introduced by the IEC and believe that it is essential they introduce them in a timely and efficient manner.”

Additionally, two new tariffs aimed at increasing Israel’s solar energy output will be discussed by the Public Utility Authority (PUA) of Israel at the conference, one that will be aimed at the solar thermal market and one that will be for photovoltaic energy production. Conference organizers also anticipate that at the event, the PUA will announce a second 50 mW quota for rooftop installations.

In Israel, the quota for subsidizing solar installations was set at 50 mW, a number agreed upon by representatives from Israel’s National Infrastructure Ministry and the Public Utilities Authority, which also serves as the regulator in charge of the country’s solar production. The incentives were announced approximately a year and a half ago and have led to the subsequent establishment of dozens of local businesses dedicated to installing solar technology for customers across the country.

According to the Israeli daily Ha’aretz, the announcement from the IEC jeopardizes the future of the Israeli solar installation business, as the sector has invested approximately NIS 700 million so far in anticipation of the profits they will make from the government incentives. Additionally, the freezing of the quota from the IEC could lead to the loss of more than 1,000 jobs in the local solar industry.

The conference will include executives from Public Utility Authorities and regulatory bodies around the world, including Israel, Europe and the United States and will focus on addressing the challenges that many countries around the world face in advancing solar power policy in light of strict regulatory policies.

The Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Conference, organized by the Eilat Eilot Renewable Energy Administration in association with the Technologies Company, focuses on the latest innovations in renewable energy. Conference participants include internationally-recognized alternative energy companies, experts and investors from around the world. This years Conference will include an additional track dedicated to the role of advanced energy-conservation technologies highlighting Israeli and other nation's contributions to the field of green building science and carbon reduction.

Through the participation of the Enterprise Europe Network and the conference’s selection for inclusion in the European Commission’s ECO4B initiative, the Eilat Eilot RE Conference will also address EU legislature aimed at the solar industry.

# # #

About the Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference

The Conference is an international forum encouraging discussion and debate of policies, technology, business and investment practices to lead to cost effective, doable solutions. Conference participants include leading researchers in alternative energy, government officials and policy-makers, internationally-recognized alternative energy companies and world-renowned speakers from business and academia. Over 2,000 attendees and dozens of journalists are expected to be in attendance. Some of the topics to be explored at the conference include: Renewable development in Israel, solar power, policies and regulations, and renewable energy technology. The conference is organized by the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration.

Follow us on Twitter: @eilateilot

To learn more about the conference, please visit http://www.eilatenergy.org

To schedule an interview with an executive from the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration, please contact Matthew Krieger (see below):

Media Contacts:
Ruder Finn Israel for Eilat-Eilot Energy Conference
Matthew Krieger
Cell: + 972-54-467-6950
Office: + 972-2-589-2003
Email: matthew@ruderfinn.co.il

Press Release
European Commission Selects Eilat-Eilot Conference for Inclusion in Prestigious Renewable Energy Initiative

ECO4B to Invest in Four Select Renewable Energy Events Across Europe

(Eilat, Israel 7 December, 2009) The Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference (http://www.eilatenergy.org), one of the world’s most important renewable energy events, announced today that the European Commission, the executive arm of the European Union, has chosen the Eilat-Eilot Conference for inclusion in the Commission’s ECO4B initiative, a select project led by the Enterprise Europe Network. The initiative will invest in renewable energy conferences taking place over 2010-2011 in Israel, Spain, Slovenia, Bulgaria and Italy. The Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy conference will be held from February 16-18 in Eilat, Israel.

The €250,000 initiative is aimed at increasing renewable energy partnerships and business deals between Enterprise Europe Network members, including more than 600 organizations across more than 40 European countries.

The substantial monetary grant awarded to the ECO4B partner conferences will be used for subsidizing the participation of hi-profile delegations of businessmen and officials at each of the events with the specific aim of building new relationships and seeking potential partnerships.

“The purpose of the ECO4B project is to not only raise awareness and promote the newest and most promising technologies in renewable energy, but to ultimately facilitate collaboration and partnerships between the countries and set the stage for a brighter and cleaner future,” said Elisabetta Andreani, Coordinator of ECO4B project. “Israel has much to offer the world in the area of renewable energy and we are very pleased to include the Eilat-Eilot Conference in this project.”

The Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Conference, organized by the Eilat Eilot Renewable Energy Administration in association with the Technologies Company, focuses on the latest innovations in renewable energy. Conference participants include internationally-recognized alternative energy companies, experts and investors from around the world. This years Conference will include an additional track dedicated to the role of advanced energy-conservation technologies highlighting Israeli and other nation's contributions to the field of green building science and carbon reduction.

“We are thrilled to have been selected by the European Commission and to be included among Europe’s most exciting renewable energy initiatives,” said Udi Gat, Chairman of the Hevel Eilot Regional Council. “This grant highlights the leading role that Israel is taking in the global quest for a sustainable future and underscores the great value that the Commission places in Israel’s development of clean energy technologies.”

In addition to the grant, the Eilat-Eilot Conference will be promoted through the Enterprise Europe Network. The network, which boasts a strong energy sector group, provides a number of services to assist small and medium enterprises in developing their innovative potential and exploring new business partnerships, and also offers useful information on EU legislation and market access.

# # #

About the Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference

The Conference is an international forum encouraging discussion and debate of policies, technology, business and investment practices to lead to cost effective, doable solutions. Conference participants include leading researchers in alternative energy, government officials and policy-makers, internationally-recognized alternative energy companies and world-renowned speakers from business and academia. Over 2,000 attendees and dozens of journalists are expected to be in attendance. Some of the topics to be explored at the conference include: Renewable development in Israel, solar power, policies and regulations, and renewable energy technology. The conference is organized by the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration.

About Enterprise Europe Network

The Enterprise Europe Network, a comprehensive business network consisting of 600 organizations - including chambers of commerce, regional development agencies, and university technology centers - that unites more than 3,000 professionals in over 40 countries across Europe. The network, which boasts a strong energy sector group, provides a number of services to assist small and medium enterprises in developing their innovative potential and exploring new business partnerships, and also offers useful information on EU legislation and market access. For more information, please visit www.enterpriseisrael.org.il.

Follow us on Twitter: @eilateilot

To learn more about the conference, please visit http://www.eilatenergy.org

To schedule an interview with an executive from the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration, please contact Matthew Krieger (see below):

Media Contacts:
Ruder Finn Israel for Eilat-Eilot Energy Conference
Matthew Krieger
Cell: + 972-54-467-6950
Office: + 972-2-589-2003
Email: matthew@ruderfinn.co.il

The 2010 Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Conference Looks To Carbon-Free Energy

6 Nov 09

Maurice Picow
Green Prophet

During a speech at the recent 2009 Israel Presidents Conference, Prime Minister Netanyahu remarked that Israel is embarking on programs to enable it to be almost entirely reliant on alternative energy systems by the year 2020. This plan, which many people see as more of a visionary dream (because Israel won’t even be able to curb its greenhouse gases by 2030), may be much closer to becoming reality following the upcoming Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Conference, scheduled to take place in Israel’s southernmost city on February 16-18, 2010.

In fact, the very theme of the upcoming conference, sponsored by the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration, may make it one of the most important of its kind as it will also include the inauguration of a special 200 MW Timna Renewable Energy Park, a center for the development of renewable energy projects.

The Administration is planning to unveil a model for solving the world’s energy shortages that it hopes will be adopted by governments worldwide. Noam Ilan head of business development for the Eilat region, was quoted as saying that “Israel has become known throughout the world as a clean energy powerhouse and the country’s technological and governmental accomplishments in this industry will be on full display at the upcoming event.”

The model that Ilan and other members of the Renewable Energy Administration are working on will be composed of a number of factors, including raising renewable awareness and education, combined with research and development, commercialization of technology, energy conservation, and the production of energy from renewable resources.

The above mentioned Timna Renewable Park, when completed will include two 50 MW solar thermal terminals, a hybrid solar thermal project, a desalination plant, and a solar turbine power plant the will produce energy from municipal waste. Producing energy from sewage is already being worked on as a pilot by an Israeli company, Applied Clean Tech, in partnership with an American bio tech company, Qteros. The Center at Timna will receive half of its financing from the Israeli government, amounting to around $14 million.

More than 2,000 people are expected to attend the conference, including former US Ambassador to Israel Richard Jones, who is now the Deputy Executive Director of the International Energy Agency; Michael Peevey, President of California Public Utility Commission and Dr. Hermann Scheer, General Chairman of the World Council for Renewable Energy.

With the idea of attracting investors and entrepreneurs in the projects that will be on display during the conference, the meet will provide new Israeli energy technology companies with a platform to present their innovations to the delegates who will be attending. The Eilat-Eilot Regional Energy Administration, the conference hosts, hope to be able to produce 100% of their regions energy from renewable sources within the next ten years. Will you be there?

Eilat-Eilot region seeks to become center for renewable energy

29 Oct 09

Jerusalem Post Online

It’s hot down south. Really, really hot most of the year, especially around Eilat. The sun pounds down onto the city and its surroundings. For years, people thought Eilat was just a good place to go for a tan and a swim or a swanky hotel. In an age of global climate change, the Eilat-Eilot Regional Council realized, however, that sun could also mean energy.

At the first annual International Renewable Energy Conference and Exhibition in Eilat in February, the regional council kicked off its plan to encourage companies to set up beta sites for alternative energies in the city and surrounding kibbutzim. They also declared their intention to switch solely to renewables for energy and thus become a model region, which could then be copied in other parts of the world.

That's an extremely complex task, and not one to be accomplished overnight. Nevertheless, eight months later, there are signs that things are beginning to move.

The regional council has managed to lure a couple of companies down south to create test sites, such as Aora, which launched its test site at the conference in February.

Since then, they have begun talks with several other alternative energy companies.

“Right now, the renewable energy technology is all German or Chinese. There is no mature Israeli technology. Our strategy is to be the bridge between the laboratory and the market,” Noam Ilan, head of Business Development for the Eilat-Eilot region, told The Jerusalem Postrecently.

“We are in talks with B-Solar, Solaris Synergy (to use the Eilat Water Treatment Plant), Dov Raviv’s MST, Phoebus and Winflex,” he added. Solaris is developing a floating solar panel system, while Raviv, the father of the Arrow missile system, is developing a new concentrated photovoltaic technology. Phoebus designs green heating systems and B-Solar is working on more efficient photovoltaic cells.

“There are three related elements coming together down in Eilat,” iConsortium: The Israel Energy & Security Consortium Chairman and founder David Schwartz told the Post. “The first is the international conference in February 2010, which will showcase Israeli alternative energy technologies.”

Conference organizers said Wednesday that the conference would also feature the launch of the bidding process for the 200MW Timna Renewable Energy Park and the unveiling of the planned Center for Renewable Energy Technologies. The center’s goal is to establish a foundation for advanced technological entrepreneurship in the field of renewable energies. It will be managed by an entrepreneurial group chosen by the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Labor, with government support covering 50 percent of the investments and expenses. The center will receive a governmental budget of NIS 57 million and it will commit to a minimum of five years of activity, according to a press release.

“Second, what we are trying to do down there is not just R&D but a blueprint as to how to transform a region. There are also mini projects – pilot projects for energy efficiency,” Schwartz said. iConsortium (formerly the MyPlanet consortium) has been helping plan the green building aspects of the conference and bring companies down to Eilat. iConsortium provides one-stop service for green and/or security retrofitting of buildings and installations.

In addition to providing land to set up solar towers or solar panel beta sites, work is afoot to test out energy efficient materials and technologies on kibbutz houses. The greenAgenda sustainability consulting company is in the beginning stages of planning.

“We're just trying to figure out now how to get the pilot project off the ground and figuring out which technologies will work and how the kibbutzim use their energy,” greenAgenda CEO Karni Govreen-Segal said Wednesday. In addition to alternative energy technologies, they are looking at other construction elements such as roofing, window and shade placement and other similar features, she added.

“What we need now are businesses and people down there to say we want to save energy,” she said. Little by little, that seems to be happening.

“It’s not good enough to replace fossil fuel with solar. We need to use less energy and waste less energy,” she added.

Speaking of solar, Kibbutz Ketura has become a bastion of solar energy, thanks to the founding of the Arava Power Company. While the company would like to transform the entire region into a solar mecca, they’re focusing on getting the first commercial solar field in Israel up and running in a field right next to Kibbutz Ketura. The field would produce 40 MW of energy, APC President Yosef Abramowitz said.

The kibbutz had also set up a validation center at the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies, Schwartz said.

Some of the hotels have also started to green themselves.

The Orchid Hotel was the first in Israel to put up solar panels on its roof to generate electricity six months ago. They intend to put up another similar installation next year. The hotel has a solar water heater system and is looking into water recycling systems. It also has systems which govern lighting and electricity use.

The Al-Sorag window film company recently covered 100 meters of the Magic Palace Hotel, Al-Sorag Marketing Manager Uzi Zaharony said. Window film is a dual energy efficiency/security product. Its basic form can be used to prevent glass from shattering in explosions. A slightly more advanced version also filters the sun’s rays and helps keep buildings cool.

“The hotel started with a pilot project about two years ago on the windows of two suites. When they realized that it really cooled the rooms down and their customers liked it, they wanted to cover a greater area. They started with the suites, about 100 meters, but ran out of money last year because of the global financial crunch. However, we’re in talks with them about doing more of the hotel this year,” he said.

Al-Sorag also recently covered all the windows in a local arts school.

In Eilat, the public and private sectors seem to be working together to try and accomplish environmental goals.

Schwartz said he saw that, in part, the mission of his consortium and private business in general was to provide encouragement, explanations and support so that government initiatives were more than just proclamations.

“Government initiatives often take time, whereas private businesses can get the ball rolling on the ground,” he said.

This article can be read at:
http://www.jpost.com /servlet/Satellite?cid=1256740789270&pagename=JPArticle%2FShowFull

Copyright 1995- 2009 The Jerusalem Post - http://www.jpost.com/

Press Release
Toronto Stock Exchange to Seek Partnerships with Israeli Renewable Energy Companies at Upcoming Conference in Eilat

World’s Largest Clean Tech Exchange to Attend Event with Senior-Level Delegation of Investment Bankers and Lawyers in Hopes of Launching IPO Process for Several Israeli Companies

(Eilat, Israel 9 November, 2009) The Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference (http://www.eilatenergy.org), one of the world’s most important renewable energy events, announced today that the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) will be participating in the conference in order to develop relationships as well as to seek potential partnerships with Israeli and International renewable energy companies. The conference will be held from February 16-18 in Eilat, Israel.

The Toronto Stock Exchange – a subsidiary of the TMX Group Inc. – is the world’s largest market for clean tech companies. It is the world's eighth largest stock exchange, and Canada's largest stock exchange by market capitalization.

Although Israeli companies are well-represented on NASDAQ and on the New York and London Stock Exchanges, they have yet to establish a significant presence on the TSX.

“Israel is a world leader when it comes to clean technology developments, however the companies behind these developments often have trouble marketing their technology and raising money – this is where we see our added value in any partnerships we establish,” said Raymond King, Senior Manager of Listings Business Development at the Toronto Stock Exchange. “The Eilat-Eilot Conference will provide us with a wonderful opportunity to introduce ourselves to some of the country’s up and coming companies, and, as we will be attending the event with a senior level delegation of investment bankers and lawyers, there is a good chance that we will be able to start the IPO process for a number of Israeli firms.”

Earlier this year, under the auspices of the Eilat-Eilot Regional Development Council and the Toronto Stock Exchange, a number of Israeli renewable energy companies met with Toronto-based investment bankers and angel investors, the results of which led to several offers of IPOs from the TSX as well as discussions on joint ventures between the Israeli companies and counterparts in Toronto.

“We are honored that the Toronto Stock Exchange has taken this firm step toward supporting clean technology energy development here in Israel, and we look forward to a productive partnership,” said Noam Ilan, Business and Technology Director for the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration.

The Eilat-Eilot Conference, organized by the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration, focuses on the latest innovations in renewable energy. Conference participants include internationally-recognized alternative energy companies and speakers from around the world. Conference organizers expect over 2,000 attendees at this year’s event.

The upcoming conference will include the unveiling of a proposed model for dealing with the energy crisis through the promotion of the key elements required by developed nations to shape a sustainable energy future. These include raising awareness and education, research and development, the commercialization of technology, production of energy from renewable resources, energy conservation and supportive regulation.

# # #

About the Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference

The Conference is an international forum encouraging discussion and debate of policies, technology, business and investment practices to lead to cost effective, doable solutions. Conference participants include leading researchers in alternative energy, government officials and policy-makers, internationally-recognized alternative energy companies and world-renowned speakers from business and academia. Over 1,000 attendees and dozens of journalists are expected to be in attendance. Some of the topics to be explored at the conference include: Renewable development in Israel, solar power, policies and regulations, and renewable energy technology. The conference is organized by the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration.

To learn more about the conference, please visit http://www.eilatenergy.org
or
http://pitch.pe/1632 - (best if opened with Mozilla Firefox).

To schedule an interview with an executive from the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration, please contact Matthew Krieger (see below):

Media Contacts:
Ruder Finn Israel for Eilat-Eilot Energy Conference
Matthew Krieger
Cell: + 972-54-467-6950
Office: + 972-2-589-2003
Email: matthew@ruderfinn.co.il

Press Release

Energy Experts from Around the World to Introduce Model for Overcoming Energy Crisis at International Renewable Energy Conference in Eilat

Conference to Also Feature Launch of Bidding Process for 200 MW Timna RE Park and the Unveiling of the Planned Center for Renewable Energy Technologies

Eilat, Israel 28 October, 2009) The Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference (http://www.eilatenergy.org), announced today that at its upcoming conference in February, it will unveil a model for overcoming the world’s energy crisis that it expects will be adopted by governments and regions around the world. The conference will be held in Eilat, Israel from February 16-18.

The Eilat-Eilot Conference, organized by the Eilat Eilat Renewable Energy Administration in association with the Technologies Company, is one of the world’s most important energy conferences focusing on the latest innovations in renewable energy. Conference participants include internationally-recognized alternative energy companies and speakers from around the world, such as former US Ambassador to Israel, Richard Jones, who is now the Deputy Executive Director of the International Energy Agency; Mr. Michael Peevey, President of California Public Utility Commission and Dr. Hermann Scheer, General chairman of the World Council for Renewable Energy. Conference organizers expect over 2,000 attendees at this year’s event.

“In an effort to move towards a more sustainable energy future, this year’s conference will focus on introducing real solutions that we expect will be adopted by regional councils and governments around the world,” said Noam Ilan, head of Business Development for the Eilat-Eilot region. “Israel has become known throughout the world as a clean energy powerhouse and the country’s technological and governmental accomplishments in this industry will be on full display at the upcoming event.”

The 2010 Conference in Eilat will include the unveiling of a proposed model for dealing with the energy crisis through the promotion of the key elements required by developed nations to shape a sustainable energy future. These include raising awareness and education, research and development, the commercialization of technology, production of energy from renewable resources, energy conservation and supportive regulation.

Additionally, the conference will serve as the launch of the bidding process for the planned 200 MW Timna Renewable Energy Park, the centerpiece of the Eilat-Eilot region’s efforts to turn Southern Israel into the “Silicon Valley” of renewable energy. Companies from around the world are expected to submit bids to purchase the first plots of land in the park and will then begin construction of the first projects in the park – two 50MW solar thermal fields. In addition to solar thermal, the park will feature a combined wind/solar "farm"; a solarized turbine pilot plant and the production of biogas from municipal waste.

The conference will also feature the unveiling of the planned Center for Renewable Energy Technologies. The goal of the Center is to establish a foundation for advanced technological entrepreneurship in the field of renewable energies. It will be managed by an entrepreneurial group chosen by the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Labor, with government support covering 50% of the investments and expenses. The Center will receive a governmental budget of NIS 57 million and it will make a commitment to a minimum of five years of activity.

# # #

About the Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference

The Conference is an international forum encouraging discussion and debate of policies, technology, business and investment practices to lead to cost effective, doable solutions. Conference participants include leading researchers in alternative energy, government officials and policy-makers, internationally-recognized alternative energy companies and world-renowned speakers from business and academia. Over 1,000 attendees and dozens of journalists are expected to be in attendance. Some of the topics to be explored at the conference include: Renewable development in Israel, solar power, policies and regulations, and renewable energy technology. The conference is organized by the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration.

To learn more about the conference, please visit http://www.eilatenergy.org
or
http://pitch.pe/1632 - (best if opened with Mozilla Firefox).

To schedule an interview with an executive from the Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Administration, please contact Matthew Krieger (see below):

Media Contacts:
Ruder Finn Israel for Eilat-Eilot Energy Conference
Matthew Krieger
Cell: + 972-54-467-6950
Office: + 972-2-589-2003
Email: matthew@ruderfinn.co.il

Paz Solar, Israel's National Gas Company comes will be an honored sponsor at the Eilat-Eilot International Renewable Energy Conference on Feb 16-18 at the Harods &Dan Hotels, Eilat, Israel.

Earlier this year, in August, Paz Solar entered its first venture into the building mid-sized photovoltaic power plants (up to five megawatts) on kibbutzim and moshavim.

In the latest deal in the Israeli solar energy market, Paz Oil Company Ltd. (TASE:PZOL) unit Paz Solar Ltd. has signed an agreement to build two photovoltaic power plants, generating a combined ten megawatts, on land of Kibbutz Sde Boker in the Negev. This is Paz Solar's first venture into the building mid-sized photovoltaic power plants (up to five megawatts) on kibbutzim and moshavim.

Paz Solar will design and build the power plants, and operate them for 20 years on a 200-300 dunam (50-75 acres) site. Construction of the power plants was made possible following the publication of regulations for the building of five-megawatt solar power plants and the sale of electricity from them to the national grid. Power producers are guaranteed fixed payments over 20 years.