The Government of Georgia, acting through the Ministry of Energy and the Georgian State Electrosystem (GSE), would like to strengthen grid access for South Western Georgia by constructing a 220-kV double circuit overhead power transmission line (OHL), connecting the substations in Akhaltsikhe and Batumi. The new transmission line will ensure more stable electricity supply in the region, reduce outages and enable the GSE to meet the growing demand for electricity, as well as enhance export opportunities. The new transmission line will also allow the planned hydropower plants on the Adjaristsqali River, the 178-MW Shuakhevi HPP and the 150-MW Koromkheti HPP, under development by Adjaristsqali Georgia LLC, to be connected to the grid.
Adjaristsqali Georgia LLC (AGL), is a special purpose vehicle/company set up for the development of the Adjaristsqali Hydropower Cascade after Clean Energy Invest AS (CEI, Norway). The AGL has agreed with the GSE and the Government of Georgia to fund the development of the engineering and environmental studies required for the construction of the 220-kV Akhaltsikhe-Batumi OHL, whereas the construction works are to be financed from a World Bank loan. The GSE will be responsible for the construction and operation of the 220-kV OHL and will own the line.
The AGL has engaged DG Consulting Ltd (Georgia) for developing the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA). Present draft ESIA report and Executive Summary are now disclosed through the GSE’s web page for public feedback.
