Israel Explores Deep Sea Pumping to Counter Algae Bloom Affecting Desalination Plants

Eight days after a bloom of micro-algae, believed to have drifted from the Nile, disrupted Israel's desalination capabilities, national water company Mekorot is evaluating a novel solution to bypass the murky seawater. Engineers are considering extending intake pipes several kilometers further into the Mediterranean Sea to reach clearer waters, potentially installing multiple intake points to draw from deeper, cleaner sources. This comes after an earlier attempt to treat the algae by spraying a section of the sea near Ashkelon proved unsuccessful in improving water clarity.

Energy Minister Eli Cohen stated that the cost of extending the pipes would be relatively minor, with current major expenses focused on acquiring additional filters for the desalination plants to cope with prolonged turbidity and filter wear. Despite the ongoing operational disruptions and associated costs, Cohen assured the public that water tariffs would not increase, citing the water sector's annual revenue of 10 billion shekels and reduced costs during plant shutdowns.

While a full return to normal operations is not yet projected, Cohen confirmed that Israel's water supply commitments to Jordan, approximately 40 million cubic meters annually, would continue uninterrupted. He also asserted that Israel does not require external water assistance due to increased pumping from the Sea of Galilee and various groundwater wells across the country.

Cohen dismissed theories suggesting the pollution originated from the Gaza Strip, reiterating his stance that the micro-algae originated from the Nile and traveled along the Mediterranean coast. He emphasized that domestic water supply remains secure, with production exceeding consumption, and anticipates reduced demand as temperatures decrease. The high turbidity first appeared last weekend, leading to the shutdown of five out of six desalination plants. While drinking water supplies were largely unaffected, farmers and public spaces experienced impacts. Currently, only three plants are operational, with Hadera running at full capacity, Sorek 1 at one-third, and Palmahim at half capacity.