Gaza Herald – A severe energy crisis is intensifying for displaced Palestinians in Gaza, exacerbated by the systematic destruction of infrastructure and the tightening of a comprehensive siege. For the third consecutive year, Israeli forces have prevented the entry of fuel required to operate the sole electricity generation plant, while destroying most main and distribution networks.
This prolonged restriction has led to a complete lack of energy sources, turning remaining supplies into commodities for exorbitant profit and commercial monopoly. The Israeli blockade on alternative energy equipment has driven prices for solar panels and batteries to astronomical levels, with costs jumping from about 500 shekels before the war to over 10,000 shekels today.
Abu Mohammad Wadi, a 48-year-old displaced resident living in a school shelter, described the daily struggle to find charging points. He stated that families wake up not only to consider food but to begin long journeys carrying heavy batteries to private business owners who charge high fees. Wadi emphasized that this energy is a lifeline, not a secondary luxury, and called on international organizations to pressure authorities for immediate entry of alternative equipment.
Displaced woman Eman Nasr highlighted similar hardships, noting that shortages of generator parts and engine oils allow charging station owners to raise costs daily. She explained that residents now pay unaffordable amounts for minimal charges that barely power tents for a few hours. Nasr urged the introduction of solar panels and batteries at normal prices to break the existing monopoly and restore basic dignity.
Economic expert Ahmed Abu Qamar attributed the price surges to supply and demand mechanics under the siege. He noted that the extended ban on alternative energy supplies, cables, and batteries has created extreme scarcity against urgent demand. Abu Qamar warned that the paralysis of the energy sector has deprived citizens of basic resources, forcing them to seek expensive alternatives for minimum living needs.
The expert further explained that the operational cost of electricity has multiplied compared to pre-war prices, directly impacting the cost of essential goods and services. Abu Qamar concluded that breaking this vicious cycle requires the immediate entry of fuel, generators, and alternative energy supplies as humanitarian necessities, alongside the restart of the main power plant to reduce prices and alleviate the burden on displaced families.
This report was produced in the Gaza Herald newsroom.
