A historic moment unfolded Thursday morning in the northern West Bank: For the first time since the implementation of the disengagement plan in 2005, the settlement of Homesh and its adjacent military base were connected to Israel’s national electricity grid. After years of relying on generators and temporary infrastructure, the resettled community now has permanent status in infrastructure as well.
Professional crews from the Israel Electric Corporation, accompanied by security forces, completed the complex infrastructure work in the early morning hours and flipped the main switch, reconnecting Homesh to the nation’s energy lifeline.
Key Points of the Historic Connection
Closing a 21-year circle: Since the settlement’s evacuation as part of the disengagement, the site operated without proper electrical infrastructure. This morning’s connection marks a policy shift and full return to the area.
Significant security improvement: The connection to the national grid will serve not only the settlement’s residents and yeshiva, but also the adjacent military base, significantly improving operational and logistical capabilities in the area.
Commitment to infrastructure: Israel Electric Corporation CEO Meir Shpigler, who closely monitored the work, emphasized that this is both a professional and values-driven move.
Meir Shpigler, CEO of Israel Electric Corporation: “The Israel Electric Corporation is committed to providing quality and reliable service to all citizens of the state, in every settlement the state has defined. Connecting Homesh to the national grid is part of our professional and ethical obligation to ensure vital infrastructure. Electricity is not a luxury, but a basic right of every person in the 21st century.”