From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Energy Ministry proposal seeks to streamline rooftop solar panel installation
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleSue Surkes is The Times of Israel's environment reporter
As part of its aim to have 100,000 solar roofs by 2030, the Energy Ministry publishes for public comment a proposal that would cut costs and shorten the time it takes for rooftop solar panel installation, from up to six months to 30 days.
According to a ministry review, establishing a home solar system involves 22 to 26 stages today, and the involvement of over 10 professional and regulatory factors.
Although the physical installation takes up to four days only, households must wait months due to licensing procedures, inspections, coordination, and connection to the electricity grid.
The connection stage alone can take up to three months, even when the system is already installed and ready for operation.
Furthermore, double inspections by building engineers and electricians add thousands of shekels to the cost, without a significant safety addition.
Regulatory costs can reach up to NIS 23,000 ($7,740) per system, with almost 40% of the project cost attributed to labor, planning, inspection, and regulation.
The Times of Israel Community.