New Findings Reveal Frequent Air Pollution Exceedances at Orot Rabin Power Plant in Hadera

Recent tests at the Orot Rabin power plant in Hadera found that 40% of the coal unit operating time recorded air pollution levels exceeding legal limits. The Sharon-Carmel Environmental Association stated that the plant's operations have significant environmental and health impacts. During the plant's operation, malfunctions were detected in pollution control systems, including a particle filtration failure in Unit 4 and a sulfur emission reduction failure in Unit 2. However, high particle emissions were also recorded during operations of units without reported malfunctions.

Air monitoring stations in the area did not register violations of environmental standards, but several stations noted increased sulfur oxide concentrations. The expert opinion emphasizes that the recurring failures in pollution control systems, combined with elevated particle levels during unit operation, necessitate stricter oversight before any further plant activations. It calls for the Israel Electric Corporation to conduct comprehensive inspections, repairs, and maintenance of pollution reduction systems and to provide detailed documentation on each malfunction, corrective actions, post-repair testing, and preventive measures.

These findings highlight ongoing environmental challenges linked to the Orot Rabin power plant's coal units and underline the need for enhanced regulatory enforcement to protect public health and the environment in the Hadera region.