After pollution levels rose again: Sorek A desalination plant shut down
The Sorek A desalination plant has ceased operations again due to a spike in seawater pollution. Currently, only the Sorek B and Palmachim plants are operating at partial capacity.
The Sorek A desalination plant, the most critical facility in the system, went out of operation again overnight (Tuesday to Wednesday) following a new rise in pollution levels in its vicinity. Currently, only the Sorek B and Palmachim plants are operating at partial capacity, together constituting one "complete" plant out of five.
As previously reported, Energy Minister Eli Cohen ordered the partial reactivation of the Sorek B and Palmachim plants to prevent domestic water shortages, despite the deviation from permitted pollution standards. There is a significant concern that the plants' membranes (filters) will be damaged, and the state has committed to compensating private operators for such damages. New footage indicates that the pollution was present in Israel about a week ago and was not brought in by currents over the weekend.
Meanwhile, Channel 13 reported that due to fears of a shortage, the Water Authority is considering restarting one of the desalination plants in violation of standards, despite low water quality and contrary to operating guidelines. A source within the Authority stated: "It is possible that we will take a calculated risk."
Yesterday, five out of six private desalination plants were shut down due to increased seawater turbidity. Consequently, the Water Authority and the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure instructed local authorities to reduce public gardening and agricultural activities.
"The supply to homes will continue, and the scope of activity in areas with localized problems will be reduced through targeted intervention by the Water Authority's operations center," the Authority clarified.
However, the Authority did not address whether water shortages are expected in residential taps. The Ministry of Energy further stated that there is currently no resumption of fresh water supply for agriculture and public gardening, and the Ministry aims to operate additional plants by nightfall, depending on changes in water quality.
Two days ago, the Water Authority reported that severe seawater turbidity, caused by weekend weather conditions, led to the temporary shutdown of several private desalination plants.
"The water sector is being managed fully, with Mekorot immediately reinforcing all available production means. According to the latest estimates, some of the desalination plants will soon return to work," the Water Authority stated.
