The National Infrastructures Committee Monday approved the construction of a new coal-fired electricity generating station in Ashkelon, overriding objections by environmentalists and the Health Ministry. Infrastructures Ministry director general Hezi Kugler explained to the committee that the new plant will help meet a four percent annual growth in demand for electricity.

The Health Ministry and Ashkelon officials said the new plant will worsen air pollution. Meretz Knesset Member Yossi Beilin said he will table a motion of no confidence in the government on Sunday because of the decision, arguing that the government has not carried out programs for alternate energy sources.