- - Mr. Giorgi, at the beginning of the year, we always take the opportunity to ask you a few questions about the developments in the construction of Bakhvi HPP. Could you tell us how the project is progressing?
- First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt New Year and Christmas greetings to each of our readers. I wish you health, success, prosperity, economic growth, and overall development. As you already know, we are building the hydropower plant together with the residents of Mtispiri, a project that will serve Georgia’s bright future for many years to come. The Bakhvi HPP represents yet another step towards the country’s long and challenging journey to energy independence. We take great pride in executing this project in collaboration with the local community, particularly as it is being constructed in a complex terrain, posing a challenge for any builder or electrical engineer. The Bakhvi 2 HPP project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, making 2024 a decisive year for us. Naturally, we have carried out substantial work throughout the year. During this period, we have built strong relationships with local residents, who work alongside us tirelessly, ensuring that these challenging tasks are completed with the highest quality and on schedule. Our team resides in the construction camp at the Ukanava site, spending significant time together. Living in such close quarters allows us to gain a deeper understanding of both the opportunities and challenges that arise. This is why we strive to be good neighbors and improve the living environment to the best of our abilities. The social projects initiated by Bakhvi HPP are dedicated to achieving this very goal.
- - The phrase "We Are Building Together" has, to some extent, become your key message for 2024. As we understand, the company is delivering on its promise by engaging the local population in construction activities?
- We are now entering the fourth year since the project's inception, and we can confidently say that this is one of the primary benefits that infrastructure development brings to the region. On one hand, those directly employed by the project benefit, and on the other, third-party stakeholders providing various services also gain from it. Additionally, individuals benefiting from our social initiatives are also included in this equation. In the case of Bakhvi HPP, the members of the advisory council also play a crucial role, actively participating in shaping the future of their region. This is why we emphasize that we are building this project together—every individual involved plays an essential role in its successful implementation. Our overarching ambition is to enhance the quality of life wherever we operate and contribute to the development of the country's energy sector. We firmly believe that the Bakhvi HPP, constructed in accordance with Western standards, will be instrumental in advancing Georgia’s energy independence. Looking back, we take pride in the fact that, in the early 21st century, we worked side by side to bring this significant project to life.
- - In your opinion, what benefits does the Bakhvi HPP project offer to those involved in its implementation?
- Our investors have set a clear mandate: the Bakhvi HPP project must be executed to the highest standards employed by leading global economies. This commitment imposes a responsibility on us to assemble a team of top-tier professionals with extensive expertise—both from experience gained within Georgia and through participation in major international projects. Working alongside highly qualified experts allows local professionals to acquire valuable knowledge and skills. We are confident that, in the future, each of them will greatly benefit from the expertise they have gained during the construction of Bakhvi HPP. Beyond professional development, ensuring fair and dignified working conditions is a priority for us. This is why we have made a conscious effort to employ as many local workers as possible, sharing and passing down the wealth of experience we have accumulated over the years.
- - Bakhvi HPP has implemented a diverse range of social programs since 2021. What specific initiatives were carried out in 2024?
- In addition to continuing our educational and support programs for people with special needs, which were initiated in 2021, we planned and executed several infrastructure projects in 2024. As of October, 47 households in Vaniskedi now have access to clean running water—a necessity that had been unattainable for decades. Another crucial milestone was the rehabilitation of local roads. In total, 8 kilometers of roads across the villages of the Mtispiri community were leveled and graveled. Furthermore, we built a new bridge in Ukanava, offering significantly improved functionality compared to the previous structure. This bridge benefits both the project team and local residents. As of 2024, our grant program has expanded to support two additional students—Mariam Beridze from the village of Chkhakaura and Ketevan Matitaishvili from the village of Mtispiri. Our student training programs have also been highly successful and will continue in the coming years. These initiatives have included lectures and discussions with prominent and inspiring individuals. We are delighted that our supported projects—including energy-efficient lighting in Bakhmaro, the Gurian tea initiative, the strengthening of the hospitality sector, and programs supporting people with with special needs —are proving to be effective and bringing tangible benefits to every individual involved. We remain committed to fostering regional development and ensuring that the Bakhvi HPP project leaves a lasting, positive impact on both the local community and the country’s energy sector.