Israel Greentech - Innovation since the days of Moses

"Greentech" has become a highly discussed topic over the last years. But this is not new to Israel at all.

Given Israel's location on the globe, applying "Green" technologies (and engineering) has in fact always been a survival necessity:

• We have very little water
• A lot of sun...
• And absolutely no oil (in a neighborhood that is very rich with black gold - and will not willingly sell it to us)

 

 

 

In fact, if you go back far enough, you'll find the first Greentech entrepreneur in the Bible - Moses, being able to bring forth water from a rock in the desert... (although he did have a bit of venture help from God)

The Romans brought fascinating engineering capabilities into Israel for the distribution of water (anyone traveling the country will find several water aqueducts and water tunnels)

Today Israel boasts some impressive Greentech "world records":

• Israel is a World leader in waste water reuse  - 75% (!) of total consumption is re-used (second place is Spain with 12%)
• Israel has the worlds largest Desalination plant (located in Ashkelon)
• Ormat and Solel are world leaders in Geothermal, and solar thermal technologies and projects
• Israel boasts some of the top academic Greentech institutions, including BGU, Volcani Center, etc.
• and more...

But I think the real "Greentech" drive is just beginning in Israel:

• Entrepreneurs that have succeeded in "mainstream" tech are starting to take notice of the opportunities, and set up new ventures addressing the Energy and Water sectors
• The VC industries have taken notice - and all are looking to become active (I'm proud to say my fund is not only looking, but has actually already invested)
• Even key Israeli figures have "gone Green" over the last year:
  • Recently Shai Agassi announced he's launching a world leading electric vehicle project in Israel (in fact I hear he's already advancing very nicely with it)
  • Even our president (Shimon Peres) is Going Green (and this Hebrew announcement yesterday)

So it might come as a surprise to some, and not to others... but i can definitely say Israel Greentech holds tremendous potential to build global companies, and bring about significant global  environmental improvements.

More to come...