World Power Plants

Vartsikhe Cascade Hydroelectric Power Plants Georgia256 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

Vartsikhe Cascade Hydroelectric Power Plants stands as a leading force in Georgia's energy sector, ranking 4th among 19 power generation facilities in the country. With a capacity of 256 MW, it is the second-largest hydroelectric power plant in Georgia, contributing an impressive 6.68% to the nation’s total installed capacity of 3,831 MW. This considerable output underscores the facility's pivotal role in supporting Georgia's predominantly hydro-based energy profile. The cascade design of Vartsikhe allows for the efficient use of water resources, optimizing energy generation through a series of interconnected plants. This technology harnesses the natural flow of the river, converting kinetic energy into electricity with minimal environmental disruption. The strategic positioning of the power plants along the river not only enhances efficiency but also contributes to flood control and water management in the region. Vartsikhe is part of a significant energy cluster in Georgia, with several nearby hydroelectric plants including Lajanuri (113 MW), Dzevrula (80 MW), and Gumati I and II (68.8 MW). These facilities collectively illustrate the dominance of hydroelectric power in the country, which is crucial for meeting the energy needs of its population and industries. The combined capacity of these plants ensures a robust supply of electricity, especially during peak demand periods. Georgia's energy landscape is marked by its reliance on hydroelectricity, which accounts for a large portion of the total energy mix. As the country continues to develop its energy infrastructure, Vartsikhe Cascade plays a vital role in maintaining energy security and providing a sustainable solution to power generation. The facility's contribution is essential, especially in the context of global efforts to transition to renewable energy sources. Operated by a dedicated team committed to maintaining high operational standards, Vartsikhe Cascade has been instrumental since its commissioning. The ongoing management reflects Georgia's strategy of utilizing its vast water resources efficiently and sustainably. As the world increasingly shifts towards renewable energy, the significance of Vartsikhe Cascade will continue to grow. Its established framework not only supports local economies but also positions Georgia as a potential leader in renewable energy within the region. The investment in hydroelectric infrastructure is not merely about power generation; it is about fostering economic development and environmental stewardship, making Vartsikhe a cornerstone of Georgia's energy future.

Capacity
256 MW
Commissioning Year
1970

56 years old

Owner
Georgian State Electrosystem
Location
42.1545°, 42.7088°

Georgia, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 4. largest of 19 plants in Georgia
  • #6,595 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,224 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 6.68% of the installed capacity of Georgia
Age & fleet comparison

56 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Georgian State Electrosystem operates 6 plants totalling 2,844 MW

Regional density
Data provenance

Source: GEODB

Location

Coordinates:: 42.154500, 42.708800
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Vartsikhe Cascade Hydroelectric Power Plants Georgia is a hydro power plant producing approximately 897 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~24 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Hydro
Energy Source
Renewable
Country
Georgia
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

GeorgiaEnergy Profile

19
Total Plants
3.8 GW
Total Capacity
HydroGas
Top Fuels

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