Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
JSC Georgian State Electrosystem would like to strengthen grid access for South Western Georgia by constructing 220 kv double circuit overhead power transmission line (OHL), connecting the substations in Akhaltsikhe and Batumi. The new transmission line will ensure mote stable electricity supply in the region, reducing outages and enable GSE to meet the growing demand for electricity, as well as enhance export opportunities.
For this project, Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) was prepared in 2015, which went through Ecological Examination and was issued Construction Permit. However, in 2018, project underwent significant changes. For that reason, Environment Impact Assessment EIA of the Change and Commissioning was prepared for changed design of Shuakhevi-Akhaltsikhe Section (94KM) of the Akhaltsikhe-Batumi 220 kV Double Circuit Power Transmission Line.
The ESIA process has been undertaken in compliance with the relevant national and international requirements. Project is also required to meet the World Bank safeguard policies, including OP/BP 4.01 Environmental Assessment. OP/BP 4.12 Involuntary Resettlement, and OP 4.36 Forests. Other relative documents for this project are developing together with the progress of the project. ESIA was correspondingly based on the World Bank Group’s EHS General Guidelines and EHS Guidelines for Electric Power Transmission and Distribution.
This report presents the findings of Environment Impact Assessment EIA of the Change and Commissioning for changed design of Shuakhevi-Akhaltsikhe Section (94KM) of the Akhaltsikhe-Batumi 220 kV Double Circuit Power Transmission Line being promoted by the Georgian State Electrosystem JSC (GSE).
Georgian version of ESIA is prepared in accordance with the national legislation and Ministry of Environment and Agriculture of Georgia’s requirements. Taking into account each request is obligatory condition for receiving positive environmental decision. For the citizens of Georgia, on GSE web-site must be published version that underwent public hearings and received positive environmental decision. As for English version of ESIA, it was prepared in accordance with the international and World Bank requirements. Their implementation also represents a required stipulation. Public hearing is planned for English version which is prepared in accordance with requirements of the World Bank.
Environmental and Social Impact Assessment:
- Environmental Impact Assessment of the Change and Commissioning
- Environment Impact Assessment EIA of the Change and Commissioning
Additional Information and Clarifications - Labor Management Procedures
- Stakeholders Engagement Plan (SEP)
Any comments or feedback on the Project can be made directly to GSE through email to zezva.khvedelidze@gse.com.ge, or in writing at the following address: No.2 Baratashvili St., Tbilisi, GSE Head Office.
