Jerusalem, 28 October, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Israel is exploring a shift from diesel generators to battery-based backup power in apartment buildings, with falling battery prices potentially making the technology a cheaper and cleaner option, the Energy and Infrastructure Ministry said.
A ministry study modeled costs over 20 years for three types of new residential buildings. Battery systems would save about NIS 21,000 ($6,700) compared with generators in buildings of up to nine stories with outdoor parking. However, batteries were NIS 5,000 ($1,600) more expensive in similar buildings with underground parking and NIS 38,000 ($12,200) more expensive in buildings of up to 20 stories with underground garages.
The ministry said declining battery costs could eventually make storage systems the less expensive choice in all three categories.
Officials are working with the Planning Administration on regulatory changes that would allow battery storage to replace generators currently required to keep essential systems running during power cuts.
According to the ministry, the proposed alternative could also bring benefits beyond emergency preparedness. Battery systems produce no exhaust emissions at the point of use, generate less noise, and allow continuous monitoring to identify technical problems.
