Contruction of Lopota SHP started in 2003 and was completed in March 2009. The original purpose of the hydro power plant was to supply power to surrounding villages, as well as support of agricultural activities in the district. Now, with most of Georgia being part of national grid, ESCo - the electricity System Commercial Operator- and potentially some lthe Hocal industries as direct customers will purchase the plant's output. With the help and financial assistance from the Rural Energy program, the facility expaneded it's generation capacity from zero to 2,000KW providing 12,823 million KWhs per year to the grid. The rehabilitation project will generate approximately USD 1,5 million in electiricy revenues over the next years. RURAL ENERGY PROGRAM ASSISTANCE HAS INCLUDED:
- Preparation of pre-feasibility studies
- Completion of project technical design documents
- Development of a business plan successful in securing a 333,000 $ bank loan for 5 years at 14%
- provision of a 152,000$ USAID grant
- Development of a construction management plans and on-site management assistance
- Completion of an Environmental Management Plan
- Development and institution of an operation and maintenance program
- Assistance in identifying and procuring electro-mechanical equipment
- Assistance negotiating a PPA with ESO
- Assistance in obtaining authorization from Georgian Electro Systems to connect to the electricity grid
PROJECT ACTIVITIES
- Construction of main and reserve tailrace
- Rehabilitation of penstock
- Construction of seven road crossings
- Rehabilitation of dam and water intake structure
- Rehabilitation of the two generator sets
- Installation of new controls and switchgear
- Improvement of the powerhouse building
- Acquisition of connection and generation licenses
- Acquisition of electric meters measuring output
- Installed capacity of Lopota Hydro power plant increased generation from zero to 2,000KW
- The operation of the Hydro power station positively affected economic and social condistions in the community as well as provides incestives for the development of SHP business in Georgia.