Development of the Hydro-Energy Complex of Republic of Artsakh
Review papers
Abstract
An attempt is made to analyze the development of the hydropower industry in Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh Republic) in a comprehensive way, identifying the basic problems of the industry. It is shown that the development of the hydropower complex forms the prerequisites for implementation of the concept of an “energy independent” state, and in the future - state with an excess of electricity capacities ready to increase exports. Thus, the possibilities of exporting the electricity produced in Republic of Artsakh are analyzed. The main factors preventing the republic from making full use of its export potential are identified. In particular, the level of influence of the international status of Republic of Artsakh as an unrecognized state on the development of energy communications are studied. Export issues are considered in the context of Armenia's connection to the “North-South” energy corridor. It is shown that taking into account the construction of the high-voltage air line Arajazor-QarvacharZod, the output of Artsakh electricity through Armenia's energy system to foreign markets looks quite realistic.
Particular attention is paid to historical preconditions for the formation of the hydropower complex of Republic of Artsakh. It is revealed that during the Soviet period the foundations for the sustainable development of the Artsakh energy system was created, which wss expressed in the presence of necessary infrastructures on the basis of which the entire energy security system of the republic was built during the years of independence.
The peculiarities of the policy of assessing the energy potential and development of water resources conducted in Republic of Artsakh are studied. The target program of the government "Development of the NKR water resources", as well as the basic values and criteria of the industry development laid down in the main legislative acts regulating the industry - "Law on Energy" and "Law on Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy" are analyzed. It is revealed that hydropower is a kind of system-forming factor that stimulates the institutional development in Artsakh. As the most successful example, the IPO (Initial Public Offering) of JSC "Artsakh HPP" which gave a new quality to the state financial and economic institutions is considered. It is stated that the energy system of Republic of Artsakh acts as the locomotive of its economy, which demonstrates high rates of development. According to the results of 2015, economic growth in the republic amounted to 9.1%, following the results of 2016 - 9.2%, which was largely promoted by activity in the construction of hydroelectric power infrastructures and the growth of electricity production.
