Title: Electric Company Celebrates “Natural Gas Flow” Event at Rotenberg Power Plant Amidst Controversy
Subtitle: Delay in gas conversion and absence of key players raises questions about the authority of the electric company
Date: [Insert Date]
In a ceremony filled with grandeur, the electric company celebrated the supposed flow of natural gas to the Rotenberg power plant. However, the event was marred by controversy as it was revealed that there was a one-year delay in the conversion from coal to natural gas, and no gas was actually flowed. This has raised concerns about the credibility and competence of the electric company.
The event was attended by high-profile figures such as Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Israel Katz, former minister Yuval Steinitz, and the Chairman of the Electricity Authority Amir Shavit. Notably absent were representatives from Nega, the government company responsible for managing the national electricity system. The strained relationship between the electric company and Nega, which was formed a year and a half ago, has resulted in a lack of coordination and clarity on critical matters.
Surprisingly, Nega only received an invitation to the event the night before, rendering it irrelevant due to the distance between Nega’s location in Haifa and the planned schedules. Additionally, the absence of any mention of Nega in the speeches raises questions about their role in approving the electric company’s gas operations.
The delay in the conversion of the Rotenberg power plant serves as an example of the overall inefficiency in converting coal-based production units to natural gas. The initial deadline for the completion of the conversion in Orot Rabin power plant was a year ago, but Rotenberg power plant, which was supposed to be converted later, is now a year behind schedule. These delays call into question the electric company’s ability to meet its targets and deliver on promises.
The article also raises concerns about the practical authority of the electric company’s board in the government company. The lack of a permanent chairman for two years and a subsequent fine by the Securities Authority has cast doubt on the board’s effectiveness and decision-making power. Furthermore, three months ago, the board decided to stop the conversion of coal units, but CEO Meir Spiegler spoke about the conversion of six units during the event. This contradiction raises questions about the board’s authority and decision-making process within the government company.
During the event, Minister Israel Katz took the opportunity to address criticisms from various parties. He refuted claims that he did not leave enough gas for consumption and accused Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich of signing a “strange” letter. Katz reiterated that there is a team responsible for estimating consumption and that there is a surplus in the existing gas reservoirs. He emphasized the importance of allowing exports to boost the economy.
Former Minister Yuval Steinitz expressed support for Minister Katz, highlighting the challenges faced in the gas sector. He mentioned that without the opportunity to export gas, there would be no drilling and no development of the economy. Steinitz’s remarks imply the significance of gas exports for the country’s economic growth.
In conclusion, the ceremony celebrating the supposed natural gas flow at Rotenberg power plant was overshadowed by delays and controversies. The absence of key players, the questionable authority of the electric company’s board, and the ongoing debates surrounding gas exports have raised concerns about the effectiveness and transparency of the energy sector in Israel.