What it’s about
The Israel Electric Company (IEC) has initiated a large-scale exercise simulating the impact of Hezbollah rockets on power infrastructure. This proactive measure is aimed at ensuring preparedness for potential power outages during a conflict with the Iran-backed terror group.
Why it matters
Hezbollah poses a significant threat to Israel’s infrastructure, particularly its power grid and gas rigs. The exercise underscores Israel’s commitment to maintaining energy resilience, ensuring citizens have reliable electricity even in crisis situations.
Details
The IEC’s exercise will span about ten days and encompass a variety of scenarios including power grid restoration, damage repair of power generation sites, handling hazardous materials, and conducting aerial drills. The focus is to prepare Israel for swift recuperation of its energy supply lines during wartime.
Currently, 70% of Israel’s electricity is derived from natural gas, followed by coal, diesel, fuel oil, and renewable energies. In expected emergency situations, such as when gas rigs are compromised, the country holds a substantial stockpile of diesel to ensure continued electricity production.
National Preparedness
Sami Turgeman, Chairman of Noga, Israel’s Independent Power Management company, likened active gas rigs to “ticking bombs” susceptible to precise missile hits. To counter this vulnerability, Israel plans to shut down gas rigs preemptively and convert fuel sources as necessary.
Turgeman affirmed, “There isn’t a single tank in the country that isn’t full,” signifying the country’s dedicated effort to manage energy challenges. This includes preparing alternative fuel sources, accumulating strategic reserves, and deploying backup equipment and substations.
Strategic Measures
Recognizing the potential risk of power outage scenarios, the IEC proactively invests approximately $193 million in emergency preparation. They have fortified power stations and implemented robust defense systems, notably the “Windbreaker” defense mechanism, to protect key infrastructure.
Meir Spiegler, CEO of the IEC, reiterated their readiness and criticized any mistrust as undue panic-promoting. He highlighted the unwavering commitment of the IEC to maintain stability and security, demonstrated through defensive measures and up-to-date ground operations.
The Bottom Line
Israel is taking comprehensive steps to secure its energy infrastructure against potential threats from Hezbollah, ensuring the country stands resilient and prepared in times of conflict.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.