2019-04-21
Georgia's energy independence and security is one of the Government's key priorities, which must take into account to maximally possible extent environmental impact factors and the interests of the local populations.
It is with these interests in mind that Peri LLC launched the construction of the Khadori 3 small HPP (installed capacity: 5.4 megawatts) in the Akhmeta Municipality. The construction of another small HPP is also planned. Cumulatively, the two will generate 160 million kilowatts per hour, and their combined investments make up more than 40 million USD, a tremendous contribution to the local economy. The projects involve green HPPs without damming or the construction of headworks, without overlapping private properties, and having a minimal impact of the environment.
Notably, while constructing the HPP, the company also assumed social responsibility in terms of carrying out social projects to benefit the gorge and the settlements adjacent to the HPP.
In particular, the population of the Pankisi Gorge will enjoy upgraded road and energy infrastructure, which means that new jobs will be created in the process of the HPP's construction. In addition, the local budget will be replenished with regular taxes to be used for the benefit of eth region and its residents. A special fund will also be established directly to be controlled by the local population.
Although direct communication concerning the HPP project has been maintained with the locals for a year, we express readiness to answer every possible unanswered question. To this end, on the instructions of the Prime Minister, Vice Prime Minister and Interior Minister Giorgi Gakharia, Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Regional Development and Infrastructure Maya Tskitishvili, and Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture Levan Davitashvili, and the Prime Minister's Adviser for Regional Development Sozar Subari have been delegated to the Pankisi Gorge.
Provocations and violence, including against the police, as those recently seen in the gorge, are categorically unacceptable. We urge everyone against engaging in provocations and disseminating unverified information, which will escalate the situation on the ground. The authorities will respond adequately and in line with legally prescribed procedures to all violent and destructive behavior.