Jerusalem, 6 October, 2026 (TPS-IL) — The Israeli government has spent approximately NIS 45 million ($15 million) to purchase replacement membranes for the country’s desalination plants amid an unprecedented algae bloom that disrupted the water system.
The state feared the algae would cause accelerated deterioration of the sensitive membranes used to filter seawater, potentially forcing costly replacements or temporary shutdowns. However, the anticipated damage has not occurred so far. The replacement membranes are now expected to remain as future inventory for the privately owned plants, potentially saving operators millions of shekels in future costs.
Israel’s six major Mediterranean desalination facilities were affected by the crisis, with three still operating below capacity as of Monday. Ashdod was producing 66%, Sorek B 60%, and Palmachim 85%. Ashkelon, Hadera, and Sorek A were operating at full capacity.
The algae crisis has largely eased, but Israel’s water system has not yet fully returned to normal.