In spite of the ongoing war and wider economic pressures, official figures released today (Wednesday) by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure show that prices of major household appliances in Israel have fallen over the past year. The report also highlights a reduction in electricity usage and a broader selection of products available on the market—outcomes of a reform that came into effect roughly one year ago, aimed at reducing bureaucracy and increasing competition.
Import Reform: Making the Market More Accessible
The reform, led by Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Eli Cohen, removed the need for multiple layers of approval when importing household appliances. Under the new policy, any product legally marketed in the European Union and listed in the official registry can now be brought into Israel.
This shift has helped create a more open and competitive market, making it easier for Israeli consumers—including recent immigrants— to access brands and models they may already be familiar with. The move also encourages affordability and greater choice across a range of home appliances.
Lower Electricity Use Means Lower Bills
According to the ministry’s findings, energy consumption has dropped significantly for key household appliances over the past year. These improvements translate into practical savings, with average annual reductions of up to ₪1,000 in electricity costs per household.
Credit: Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure
Washing machines: 41% drop in electricity use – ₪64 saved annually
Refrigerators: 29% drop – ₪80 saved
Clothes dryers: 54% drop – ₪162 saved
Freezers: 16% drop – ₪28 saved
Air conditioners: 21–28% drop – ₪190–₪280 saved
Appliance Prices Are Also Down
In addition to energy savings, appliance prices themselves have fallen—a notable development in a country where durable goods have traditionally been expensive and tightly regulated.
Washing machines: 1.5% price drop
Refrigerators: 7% drop
Dryers: 6% drop
Freezers: 11% drop
Credit: Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure
These price reductions occurred between 2021 and 2024, during a time when the Consumer Price Index in Israel rose by roughly 15%. For many Israelis—and especially new olim managing the cost of setting up a home—these savings make a meaningful difference.
Less Bureaucracy, More Simplicity
Minister Eli Cohen praised the reform’s success:
“The reform we introduced to open the appliance market is reducing prices, expanding product variety, easing the electricity burden on households, and cutting unnecessary bureaucracy. It’s an important move for the public.”
