The Sulori SHP was put in operation in 1953 and was operational until 1987 before it stopped functioning due to anxieties in the country and consequent robberies of the SHP’s assets. The purpose of the hydro power plant at that time was to supply power to the surrounding villages, as well as support agricultural activities in the district. With the consultation and technical assistance from the Rural Energy Program, the facility expanded its generation capacity from 0 kW to 800 kW, increasing generation by 4.5 million kWhs per year. The rehabilitation project will generate approximately USD 1 million in electricity revenues over the next years. The project was funded without USAID grant assistance.
Rural Energy Program assistance has included:
- Preparation of pre-feasibility studies
- Advice on technical design of the plant
- Advice on types of hydro-mechanical equipment to be procured for the plant
- Development of a business plan successful in securing a $214,000 credit line for 5 years at 17%
- Completion of an Environmental Management Plan
Project Activities
- Rehabilitation of water intake structure
- Refurbishment of gates at the intake structure
- Cleaning derivation canal of sedimentation
- Procurement and installation of Hydraulic Power Units
- Procurement and installation of control systems and switchgears
- Rehabilitation of the headworks
- Procurement and installation of turbines and generators
- Rehabilitation and improvement of powerhouse building
- Rehabilitation of the battery room, including ventilation
Results
- Installed capacity of Sulori hydro power plant increased generation from 0 kW up to 800 kW;
- The operation of the hydro power station positively affected economic and social conditions in the community as well as provides incentives for the development of SHP business in Georgia.