The crown jewel of Nitzana, the Solar Park, is used to educate visitors about the sun, how it affects
our lives and the phenomenal possibilities of capturing and utilizing its energy as a renewable power
source.
New energy sources are a critical concern for modern society, with economic, moral, religious and
ecological motivations for developing clean energy devices. Fossil fuels in current use are an infinite
resource that can have negative environmental impacts. These natural resources of the earth could
become completely depleted in the near future, leaving civilizations without an energy source.
Alternative energy can be obtained through the utilization of other natural resources including the
sun, wind, water and gravity. Secondary recycling of biomass can also contribute to sustainable
living.
In an effort to convey the importance these energy concepts, the Nitzana Solar Park is divided into
six clusters, each representing a method for harnessing the energy of the sun.
The clusters include:
• The solar system
• The sun as a source of heat
• The sun as a source of light
• The sun as a source of life
• Alternative energy
• Desert ecosystems
It is the hope of Nitzana that young minds of today will be effectively introduced to and educated in
the methods of harnessing and applying natural energy sources. It is important to educate students
about the origin of the electricity they use; energy does not simply come from a 'socket in the wall.'
We want to encourage our youth to discover alternative ways to produce energy that will eventually
become a very normal part of our everyday life.
At present, 40% of the park is completed with a total of 14 exhibits. The total exhibit area will cover
12,000 square meters. The final stage of the park will include a main entrance, a workshop,
classrooms and a parking lot for cars and buses.
The solar park was initiated by Nitzana (Jewish Agency) and the Sacta-Rashi Foundation, one of
the leading private family funds in Israel. Together, Nitzana, the Sacta-Rashi Foundation, and
Keren Hayesod have worked hard to make this exceptional park a reality. At present, we are
looking for partners to participate in the funding of stage two of this grand undertaking.
