(JNS) A private Israeli company has inaugurated the largest solar project in the country, reported the Israeli financial daily Globes.

Located in the Negev Desert, the Ashalim solar-energy project is the size of a small town, and is currently producing enough energy to power an estimated 70,000 households, according to the report.

Shikun u’Binui Holdings Ltd. chief shareholder Naty Saidoff announced the start of Ashalim’s commercial operations at a ceremony attended by Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz.

“Since I assumed office, I have used every possible means to increase the scope of renewable-energy production, and by doing so I expect to meet the government goal of 10% by the end of 2020,” said Steinitz. “The breakthrough in this field enables us, in addition to stopping the use of coal, to significantly promote the 2030 renewability goal,” he added.

Saidoff said, “I am proud to be given the opportunity to build meaningful mega-projects in Israel and abroad, and plan to promote similar projects in the future.”