Georgia is going solar
American company studies solar potential in rural Georgia

Headwall Power International and its partner Solar Energy Company will conduct a technical-economic feasibility study about the new solar power plant over the course of the next 12 months.

Georgia has been facing energy challenges for years. Independent Georgia has never been energy independent. It is time to make a revolutionary breakthrough in Georgia’s energy sector," said Kaladze.

Sun, wind and water – these are resources that we can use to make our independent energy country succeed."

The solar power plant in Gardabani was expected to have an annual capacity of 120 million kilowatt hours while the total investment of the project was $120 million USD.

The generated electricity will only be consumed in Georgia.

Tbilisi Shota Rustaveli International Airport already introduced a solar electricity generation system. Photo by TAV Georgia.

Research by local consulting firm PMCG said Georgia had one of the highest sunshine levels of all European countries and the state could use this huge solar energy potential to help the local population and industries power their homes and businesses.

Solar energy is radiant light and heat obtained from the sun. PMCG research stated Georgia was rich in this renewable resource.

The company's data revealed the amount of solar radiation experienced in Georgia (1,000-1,600 kilowatt/hour) was higher than the average amount experienced in Europe. Furthermore, Georgia enjoyed a higher number of sunshine days than many other countries.

Of the 365 days each year, Georgia enjoyed between 250 and 280 sunshine days, basking in about 2,000 hours of sunshine. This sunlight could be turned into solar power and used as an electricity source, said PMCG.

PMCG suggested installing solar panels in small enterprises in Georgia. Photo by Agenda.ge.

The agency claimed Georgia could benefit greatly if it best utilised solar power, and suggested installing solar panels in small enterprises in Georgia. This initiative could then expand to households and larger businesses around the country.

Tbilisi Shota Rustaveli International Airport already introduced a solar electricity generation system.

It's the first time in Caucasus region that an enterprise or facility has used solar power to operate. Construction of the new solar electricity generation system at Tbilisi International Airport’s car park is coming to an end.

The project was deemed to mark the introduction of clean energy consumption in Georgia.