As a result, almost all of the 1.4 million Palestinians residing in the Gaza Strip, with the exception of those who live in the Rafah area1, must cope with scheduled electricity cuts of 8-12 hours daily, compared to 6-8 hours prior to January 2010.
These power cuts exacerbate the already difficult living conditions in Gaza and disrupt almost all aspects of daily life, including household chores, health services, education and water and sanitation services.
A Chronic Shortfall
The shortage of electricity in the Gaza Strip dates back to June 2006, when the Israeli Air Force destroyed all six transformers at the GPP during an air strike. Five months later, the power plant resumed production, but at a significantly reduced level; 65 MW, at peak production, compared to 140 MW prior to the bombardment.
Israel's imposition of a blockade on the Gaza Strip in June 2007, following the Hamas take-over, further tightened existing restrictions on imports; access to spare parts, equipment and consumables required for the power plant's operation and the electricity network were restricted, as was the amount of industrial fuel allowed entry to the Gaza Strip. As a result, there has been a chronic shortfall in the GPP's level of electricity production3. Since January 2010, the daily electricity deficit has increased further, following the expiration of the European Commission's direct subsidy to the fuel purchase for the GPP4. Since this time, the power plant has twice had to shut down completely, due to lack of fuel. The plant now operates using one turbine, producing only 30 MW of electricity, compared to its average production of 60-65 MW in 2009 and 120-140 MW at full capacity.
See also Sydney Irresistible and Mike Hitchen Unleashed
Putting principles before profits
Putting principles before profits
