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BGU’s proposed solution centers on neighborhood-based energy storage systems that collect and store renewable energy.
A groundbreaking research initiative at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev is exploring innovative ways to supply Orthodox Jewish communities with Shabbat-friendly electricity through renewable energy storage systems.
For Orthodox Jews, electricity use during Shabbat presents complex religious considerations that have persisted since the advent of modern electrical systems.
Jewish law prohibits certain activities from Friday evening to Saturday night, including those involving fire generation, completing circuits, or causing direct changes in electrical systems.
Turning lights on or off, adjusting appliances, or triggering sensors can be considered violations of these prohibitions.
As a result, many observant families rely on timers, pre-set systems, or generators deemed “Shabbat-friendly” under religious guidelines.
Moreover, some rabbinic authorities view using electricity from Israel’s national grid during Shabbat as problematic because its generation often involves prohibited activities such as burning fuel or operating machinery by Jewish workers.
Currently, many ultra-Orthodox families use expensive, quiet generators to supply electricity on Shabbat. While these machines don’t create noise disturbances, they still produce pollution and pose safety risks.
Under the guidance of leading rabbis and energy experts, BGU’s proposed solution centers on neighborhood-based energy storage systems that collect and store renewable energy—such as solar power—during the week, then distribute it to homes and buildings during Shabbat without requiring active human intervention.
“Since this community is tightly connected and guided by religious leadership, we focused on a solution that fits both Israel’s energy goals and their way of life,” lead researcher Dr. Tehila Kalaji tells TPS.
Operating as micro-grids, these systems could serve entire neighborhoods, individual buildings, or even single apartments.
If successful, the project could reduce pollution, lower electricity bills, and serve as a model for other religious communities worldwide facing similar challenges balancing tradition with modern technology.
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