"Data that cannot be ignored": New findings from Orot Rabin
Tests conducted at the Orot Rabin power plant in Hadera revealed that in 40% of the operating time of the coal-fired units, air pollution was measured above the permitted level. The Sharon-Carmel Environmental Association stated: "The operation of the units entails environmental and health consequences."
The Sharon-Carmel Environmental Association has submitted a professional opinion to the Ministry of Environmental Protection, detailing findings from tests conducted in June during the operation of coal-fired units 1–4 at the Orot Rabin power plant. The data indicates that out of 282 hours of operation, 112 hours (approximately 40%) recorded particulate emissions exceeding permitted levels.
During these operations, malfunctions were recorded in pollution reduction systems. Unit 4 experienced a failure in its particulate filtration system, while unit 2 showed a malfunction in its sulfur emission reduction system. Notably, high particulate emissions were also measured during the operation of units where no malfunctions were reported. While air monitoring stations in the area did not record official breaches of environmental standards, several stations measured an increase in sulfur oxide concentrations.
These findings were released amid a court petition filed by the Association against the Ministry of Environmental Protection, following the Ministry's decision to extend the units' operation until 2028 and relax emission permit requirements. The Association is demanding an immediate halt to the operation of units 1–4.
A medical opinion from Dr. Ofir Lavon, attached to the petition, warns that these regulatory easements and the continued use of coal-fired units could lead to a significant increase in morbidity and mortality in the region. The Association argues that operating permits should only be granted under specific weather conditions to minimize health risks to local residents.
The report emphasizes that recurring system failures, combined with high particulate levels, necessitate stricter oversight before any future operation. It calls for the Israel Electric Corporation to perform comprehensive inspections and maintenance, providing detailed documentation on the root causes of malfunctions and the steps taken to prevent recurrence.
Nir Saar, CEO of the Sharon-Carmel Environmental Association, stated:
"The findings show that in 40% of the operating time, particulate emissions exceed permitted levels; this is data that cannot be ignored. The situation at Orot Rabin illustrates the immediate need for a national energy plan that balances energy security with the environmental and health safety of Israel's residents."
Advocate Eli Abutbul, head of the Zichron Ya'akov Council and chairman of the Association, added: "These data clearly support our demand to close these polluting coal-fired units. It is unacceptable for the state to repeatedly extend the operation of old units despite the clear health and environmental consequences. This is a struggle for the health and quality of life of nearly one million residents in the Sharon-Carmel area."
