BAKU, Azerbaijan, Dec.15
By Tamilla Mammadova – Trend:
The suspension of the operation of the most powerful hydroelectric power station in Georgia - Enguri HPP for 3-4 months in 2021 due to planned repairs will not damage the energy system of Georgia, said the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Natia Turnava, Trend reports via Georgian media.
In February 2021, all five units of the Enguri HPP will be shut down for three to 4 months due to the planned repairs of the derivation (hydraulic) tunnel.
Enguri HPP is the largest hydroelectric power plant in the Caucasus. In the period from February to May, the Enguri HPP produces the least amount of energy - about 500 million kilowatt-hours.
"The shutdown of the Enguri hydroelectric power station for 3-4 months will not damage our energy system, since the seasonal output at this time is minimal," Turnava said.
In February 2020, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) said that it will provide Georgia with a loan in the amount of 28 million euros for the repair of the Enguri HPP. The loan is issued for 15 years, from which 3.5 years is a grace period.
Thus, the total amount of the loan that the EBRD will give for repairs exceeds $100 million.
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