Advancing Solar Energy Innovation
The 24th Sede Boqer Symposium on Solar Electricity Production, hosted by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev on September 9-10, 2024, was a resounding success.
The two-day event, organized by the Ben-Gurion National Solar Energy Center at the Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, brought together over 80 leading experts, researchers, industry professionals, and students from Israel and abroad to discuss cutting-edge advances in solar energy technology. Presentations showed advancements in energy storage; progress in commercial solar and renewable energy initiatives in Israel; grid and system integration with renewable energy; innovative agro-photovoltaics; and developments in perovskite solar cells.
The symposium featured two pre-eminent keynote speakers: Prof. Doron Aurbach of Bar Ilan University presented cutting edge battery technologies, and Prof. Antoine Kahn of Princeton University, USA, presented breakthroughs and opportunities in the development of perovskite photovoltaic materials.
Of special interest was learning about the progress in industrial production of renewable energy in Israel. The growth of the Ashalim solar power plants means it now supplies a significant portion of Israel’s electricity demand, and will provide more as it grows further. Apollo Power’s development from a dream of a start-up to a profitable business fabricating flexible solar panels was inspiring. H2Pro’s innovative technology of hydrogen production is maturing, and ICL’s Green Sodom project aims at utilizing the Dead Sea resources into improved solar energy conversion. A fascinating analysis of different scenarios of combining renewable technologies into the Israeli electricity market concluded this fascinating topic.
The symposium's success was evident in the high level of engagement and collaboration among participants. The poster session, featuring presentations from early-career researchers and students, was particularly well-received, showcasing the next generation of solar energy innovators. Prof. Eugene A. Katz, co-chairing the symposium with Prof. Iris Visoly-Fisher, stated, "The quality of research presented and the depth of discussions at this year's symposium have been exceptional. We're seeing real progress in solving some of the most pressing challenges in solar energy production and storage. It is especially heart-warming to welcome the new generation of renewable energy researchers in Israel, promoting novel and exciting new directions”.
The event concluded with a call to action for increased investment in solar energy research and development, emphasizing the critical role of renewable energy in addressing global climate challenges. As we look towards a sustainable future, the advancements presented at this symposium offer hope for a cleaner, more efficient energy landscape.
