Bridging Worlds: Ultra-Orthodox Engagement with Renewable Energy

A groundbreaking study, conducted by doctoral student Matan Shitrit and guided by Dr. Tehila Kalagy and Dr. Chen Cohen from the Department of Public Policy and Administration at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, presents an innovative model for promoting renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions within Israel’s ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) community. This research focuses on bridging the gap between conservative values and environmental sustainability, offering a potential framework for policy initiatives that could benefit society at large.

The study centers on the concept of microgrid systems — advanced infrastructures that ensure a continuous power supply, promote green energy production, and significantly reduce pollution. At the core of the research is the issue of “kosher electricity,” a crucial consideration in the Haredi context. This involves storing electricity during the weekdays and distributing it on Shabbat in a way that complies with halachic (Jewish legal) restrictions. A dedicated facility for providing kosher electricity is currently under construction in Bnei Brak, marking a key milestone in integrating renewable energy solutions into the community’s traditional framework.

The research team engaged with Haredi residents from various communities across Israel, conducting interviews with religious leaders representing the full spectrum of Haredi communities. The study also consulted energy entrepreneurs and academic experts, ensuring that the proposed model accommodates both religious sensitivities and environmental goals. Rabbi Yossi Cohen of Bnei Brak, a key collaborator, emphasized the importance of integrating new technologies while respecting community needs and promoting long-term environmental and energy security:
“I place great importance on conducting a professional, comprehensive, and independent study that examines how new technologies can be integrated while respecting community needs and promoting long-term environmental and energy security. We hope that those in a position to act will take this initiative one step further, for the benefit of all.”

Dr. Tehila Kalagy noted that this project adds to Ben-Gurion University’s growing body of work focused on utilizing conservative norms within closed communities to drive environmental policy. Dr. Chen Cohen added, “The findings reveal the Haredi community’s openness to collaboration and proactive measures for environmental preservation. This is an encouraging development, not only for the community itself but for society at large.”

Matan Shitrit approached this study with a clear goal of influencing public policy in Israel. Remarkably, much of the data collection was conducted during his extended term of military reserve duty. Before beginning his doctoral research, Shitrit had a distinguished career in Israel’s defense and police services. He later pursued a master’s degree in public policy and applied his expertise in his role as Deputy Director of the Strategy Division in Dimona’s Municipality. His doctoral research merges his academic and professional interests, focusing on the societal and economic benefits of renewable energy.

Reflecting on the study’s findings, Shitrit explained:
“The platform we propose for the Haredi population includes energy production and storage at the neighborhood, building, and even apartment level. This has the potential to become a national model — enhancing Israel’s energy resilience and lowering electricity costs through the integration of renewable technologies.”

Shitrit further noted, “It’s been a privilege to conduct this research under the guidance of Dr. Tehila Kalagy and Dr. Chen Cohen, supported by a grant from the Chief Scientist of the Ministry of Energy, with invaluable assistance from Menashe Zelicha, our technical advisor.”

Shitrit recently presented his research at the Goldman Sonnenfeld School of Sustainability and Climate Change’s graduate student conference, where it was featured alongside other leading projects selected by the School’s Research Studies Committee, chaired by Prof. Stav Rosenzweig.

This study not only offers a significant academic contribution to the field of environmental policy but also serves as a powerful example of how cross-cultural collaboration can advance shared national and ecological priorities.