Azerbaijan, Baku, Jan. 16 / Trend, E. Ismayilov /
The Azerenergy JSC (production and distribution of electricity in Azerbaijan) will complete construction of several small hydropower plants in 2013, the company told Trend on Wednesday.
As stated by the company, construction of several small hydropower plants will be completed this year, as will work launched on the construction of several other small hydropower stations.
"In particular, work will be carried out on the construction of five or six small hydropower plants", Azerenergy stated.
The company said the work will cover the Balakan, Ismayilli, Oguszs, Goychay and Astara regions of Azerbaijan.
Construction of small hydro power plants is part of the development of alternative energy sources, the ongoing efforts to reduce dependence on fuel in power generation and further engage the nation's hydropower potential.
According to preliminary calculations, the theoretical hydropower potential of all rivers in Azerbaijan is 40 billion kilowatt / hours. Despite this, according to technical calculations, 16 billion kilowatt / hours are available.
The balance sheet of Azerenergy includes more than 200 substations with capacities of 500, 330, 220 and 110 kV, as well as six hydroelectric and 13 thermal power plants.