Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Eli Cohen: “Israel and Germany are two of the world’s most advanced economies. In my meeting with Minister Katherina, we discussed expanding ties in the fields of energy and innovation, natural gas, solar energy, and more. Deepening our cooperation will serve the interests of both countries and contribute to prosperity and growth globally, and particularly in the Middle East.”
Katherina Reiche, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy, the Federal Republic of Germany: “Germany is facing big challenges in the energy sector. We need to dampen energy costs, increase security of supply and reduce our vulnerability to outside interference. These challenges can only be overcome with technological strength, strategic foresight and reliable partners. Israel is providing just these qualities. Thus it is a great asset to be working together closely, pragmatically and result-oriented in the German-Israeli Energy Partnership – with the common interest to provide concrete answers to the pressing issues of our time.”
Fourth Consecutive Year of Deepening Energy Cooperation:
This year marks the fourth consecutive year of expanding energy cooperation between Israel and Germany. During her visit, Minister Reiche met with Minister Cohen, and the two formally signed the joint 2026 working programme within the framework of the Israeli-German Energy Partnership.
The partnership’s initial working programme was launched in 2023, renewed in 2024, and remained in effect throughout 2025. It is now being reaffirmed through an updated 2026 working programme, which will focus, among other areas, on expanding cooperation in renewable energy, energy efficiency, agro-voltaics, natural gas, electricity market management, strengthening energy security, and enhancing the protection of critical infrastructure against cyber threats.
One of the partnership’s most significant outcomes in the field of energy efficiency was realized last week, with the entry into force of new regulations mandating the installation of solar systems for clean electricity generation in all new buildings. During the formulation of these regulations, the German team supported the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure by providing international expertise, including a joint professional study visit held in Berlin to examine regulatory frameworks and implementation models. The upcoming working programme will further expand this cooperation toward a comprehensive strategy for transitioning to sustainable energy in buildings.
In addition, Minister Reiche is expected to visit the Cyber Lab (INCL) and the CERT facility in Be’er Sheva, where she will be presented with key aspects of Israeli-German collaboration in the cyber-energy domain, including projects and technological demonstrations conducted by Israeli and German teams.