A Review of Solar Energy Prospects in Palestine

Abstract

Energy is the main player in the community’s development in several aspects. Palestine is an occupied developing country which has a complicated energy sector. Renewable Energy (RE) resources are considered the optimal practical solution to mitigate or resolve the energy crisis in Palestine. Most of Palestine receives solar radiation about 3000 hours annually, and the average solar radiation values range from 5.4 kWh/m2.day to 6.0 kWh/m2.day. These results of solar radiation, in addition to the absence of political restrictions on the use of solar energy technology, make solar energy the most viable and feasible choice among other renewable sources. This work objective is to introduce a comprehensive review of the solar energy prospects in Palestine, its geographical data, applications, legislative, and economic potential in contrast to established projects and modules. This review is based on introducing analyzed information about solar energy characteristics in Palestine, Applied solar systems and technology, the policies and legislation, and a recap of strengths, drawbacks, and recommendations. Results showed that best locations for PV solar energy exploitation are Gaza and south West Bank, and worst is Jericho, which leads to resolve many developmental issues in both rural and urban areas.