Government Approves Construction of Two New Power Plants Despite Local Opposition

National Infrastructures Committee has given its approval for the construction of two new power plants in the Ha'aretz tender. The decision comes despite heavy objections from the heads of local authorities who applied significant pressure on government ministers.

The approved plans include the construction of the Reindir power plant in Sharon and the expansion of the existing OPC power plant in Hadera. This decision follows a prior rejection by the government in May, primarily due to the intense lobbying efforts from local authority figures.

The latest decision by the National Infrastructures Committee sets the stage for another crucial vote within the government. It remains to be seen whether the government will reverse its previous stance under renewed pressure or proceed with the approved plans this time around.

During the committee's discussions, there was a proposal to postpone the construction of the power plants by three months. However, this suggestion was ultimately dismissed. The decision was reached by a narrow majority, with 5 members voting against, 4 in favor, and 3 abstentions.

Reports suggest that the discussions were highly contentious, particularly following objections from mayors in the center of the country. These mayors spearheaded a campaign against the construction of the power plants, reflecting the deep-seated local opposition to the projects.

It's worth noting that in the previous vote against the construction of the Reindir and OPC power plants, the government approved alternative projects. These included the Kesem plant near Kfar Saba and the expansion of the Dorad power plant near Ashkelon. Furthermore, there's a consensus among all parties that one of the two power plants, either Kesem or Reindir, must be constructed by 2030 to meet the escalating demand for electricity in the central region.