6792 —שימוש בחשמל בשבת במושבים קטנים ותפעול מכונות

B"H, 29 Adar II, 5719, Brooklyn.

Havavac"h iy"a nu"n etc. Yisrael Leibov

Shalom u'Vrachah!

Regarding what you wrote about the matter of electricity—there are several ways to operate the light, so before giving an opinion it is necessary to clarify how the machines work in that specific place and for the particular use in question. Regarding the settlement you wrote about, it is possible they receive energy from Tel Aviv or have a special machine just for the settlement, etc. For a small settlement that needs energy for a minor purpose according to its needs, it is necessary to store energy (called by its Russian name), even though this is generally rare due to various technical and financial reasons. Nevertheless, even though this is a very rare minority case, it prevents giving a clear opinion—especially since it is unnecessary because one can clarify on site the type of machines and their modes of operation; accordingly, a clear halachic ruling can be made.

Additionally, as I have pointed out several times regarding other matters you wrote about concerning your location—they are not the first in such matters in the settlement; therefore, they can check how things are arranged in Komemiyut and similar places. I recall being told there is their own machine regarding Shabbat; if so, it is necessary to clearly determine how it operates and arrange it in a way permitted for Shabbat. Similarly regarding sugar and similar matters—the details here are unknown.

Blessings for good news in all general and personal matters together, and for a kosher and joyous Pesach.

Mohe Yisrael: Leibov, Kfar Chabad.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that before making halachic decisions about electricity use on Shabbat in settlements, one must thoroughly investigate local technical arrangements. Each situation may differ, so clarity about machine operation is essential for proper observance.