Dariali hydropower plant project, Georgia

The Georgian company JSC Dariali Energy has requested a loan of up to USD 80 million from the EBRD for the 108 MW Dariali hydropower (HPP) project. The project involves the construction of a derivation-type HPP on the Tergi river in the municipality of Kazbegi. The project will divert water from the town of Stepatsminda towards the powerhouse close to the border with Russia, leaving eight kilometres of river without a sufficient amount of water. The project violates both Georgian legislation and international conventions and as well negatively impacts the biological diversity of the Tergi river and the cultural and touristic importance of the Dariali gorge.