2026 Reports

The "Guide for Local Climate Action & Sustainable Energy Plan": Empowering Israeli Municipalities in the Climate Crisis

Ronen, Orli; Kimhi, Shir

Faced with accelerated warming, droughts, heatwaves, and floods, the Ministries of Energy, Environmental Protection, and Interior, in collaboration with academia and local bodies, developed the "Guide for Local Climate Action & Sustainable Energy Plan," in Hebrew and Arabic. This guide bridges the gap between national climate goals and diverse local implementation capacities, fostering adaptation, GHG reduction, and sustainable energy promotion. Recognizing the varied economic and demographic profiles of Israeli municipalities, the government, through initiatives like the "Accelerator" Program and targeted calls for proposals, has supported over 100 local authorities in developing climate action plans by 2024. The guide’s framework emphasizes tailored plans, mainstreaming climate action into municipal operations, supporting vulnerable populations, and utilizing nature-based solutions. It outlines a five-stage planning methodology, from initiation to implementation and monitoring. Examples like Eilat's energy-resilient school (solar/BESS for energy security), Beer Sheva's heat emergency hotline, and Shfaram's participatory planning for vulnerable citizens demonstrate the guide's practical application. While significant progress is noted, future efforts require predictable funding, continued technical assistance, and platforms for sharing best practices. The guide's modularity and multi-stakeholder approach offer valuable lessons for global urban climate governance.

Keywords: Local climate action plan; mitigation; adaptation; resilience