Israeli Interior Ministry Approves Key Step for Sabbath-Compliant Energy Project in Lod

After nearly two years of legal and regulatory delays, Israel Ozen, CEO of the Interior Ministry, signed the necessary approval to lease land for an energy storage system in the Ganei Ayalon neighborhood of Lod. This system is designed to provide electricity that complies with Sabbath and holiday restrictions. The project had been stalled since its initial application in July 2024 despite the city selecting Enlight company in a municipal tender and signing a contract in October 2025. Legal efforts led by Lod's deputy legal advisor, Rachel Elbaz, and advocacy by Deputy Mayor and Shas party chairman Benny Sitalchil helped secure the approval from the Interior Ministry.

Although this approval marks a significant breakthrough, further regulatory steps remain before the system can be constructed and activated, including obtaining permits from the Electricity Authority. Deputy Mayor Sitalchil expressed his joy over the progress, thanking city officials and national leaders such as Mayor Yair Revivo, Interior Ministry CEO Israel Ozen, Shas chairman Aryeh Deri, and Knesset member Yaakov Asher. Mayor Revivo also welcomed the development, highlighting the project's blend of innovation and religious law as a major benefit for Lod residents.