Unprecedented Algae Bloom Shuts Down Most Israeli Desalination Plants

Israel's Energy Minister Eli Cohen assured residents on Tuesday that the country's water supply would not be significantly impacted, despite the shutdown of most of its major desalination plants. The closures, affecting facilities in Ashkelon, Ashdod, Sorek A, Sorek B, and Palmachim, were caused by an unusual and severe "natural phenomenon" of increased seawater turbidity, believed to be from algae originating in the Nile Delta.

This unprecedented event has led to the suspension of operations at five out of six major Mediterranean desalination plants, with only the Hadera facility continuing to operate at full capacity. The Minister stated that the country is increasing water pumping from the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) and drilling operations, and has approved the activation of two additional desalination facilities to ensure regular supply. Currently, water supply to farmers and for public gardening has been reduced, with efforts underway to bring more desalination plants back online to address agricultural needs.

David Mulgai, CEO of the Hadera desalination plant's operating company, described the situation as "unprecedented in its scope," noting that such a widespread shutdown of multiple plants simultaneously has never occurred before. He explained that the algae are settling on the membranes, requiring cleaning before plants can resume operation. Mulgai estimated that the issue would likely be resolved within a day or two, assuring the public that sufficient water would be supplied, though some localized inconveniences might occur.

The algae bloom began affecting the plants on Saturday, with five facilities shutting down by Monday. While some plants briefly resumed operations on Tuesday, they were forced to shut down again. Officials from Mekorot, the Water Authority, and the Ministry of Energy are working to resolve the technical issues.