Sources inform ''Globes'' that German industrial giant Robert Bosch GmbH is considering entering Israel's solar power industry. The sources added that Bosch executives recently visited Israel and met Minister of National Infrastructures Benjamin Ben-Eliezer and other officials, including executives of solar energy companies.
Bosch is initially interested in supplying equipment and installing thermal and photovoltaic panels at companies and households. Industry sources believe that Bosch may later build solar power projects, possibly as part of a consortium with Israeli companies.
Bosch, the world's largest maker of vehicle spare parts, sells appliances, spare parts, and vehicle accessories in Israel. The company had €46.3 billion in revenue in 2007, and has 272,000 employees worldwide. Its Israeli representative is Ledico Ltd.
In June, Bosch Thermotechnik GmbH acquired 50% of Ersol Solar Energy AG (XETRA: ES6) for €546.4 million, as part of its strategy to expand its solar energy business.
Israel's solar energy industry is due to grow following the publication in February of regulations for mid-sized photovoltaic solar power installations that will generate between 50 kilowatts and five megawatts. Current regulations cover small installations of 15-50 kilowatts.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on January 6, 2009
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