New Tskaltubo 500 Substation Opens, Project Cost ₾19.6 Million
A new substation, "Tskaltubo 500," has been inaugurated in Tskaltubo, marking a significant milestone in the development of Georgia's power grid. The project, with a total cost of $19.8 million, is set to strengthen the country’s high-voltage transmission network, addressing growing electricity demand and enhancing the region's energy infrastructure.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze emphasized the substation’s importance for the nation’s energy sector.
“The successful completion of the Tskaltubo 500 substation is a major achievement for Georgia. This facility will bolster the high-voltage transmission network, ensuring the capacity to meet rising electricity demand, safely manage power exports from western Georgia, and integrate new hydropower plants into the national energy system,” the Prime Minister stated.
He highlighted that the project is critical for improving regional infrastructure, maximizing the country’s electricity export and transit potential, and ensuring energy security.
The construction employed 350 workers, the vast majority of whom were Georgian citizens. The project adhered to stringent environmental standards outlined by Georgian legislation and the World Bank’s environmental and social guidelines.
In addition to the substation, plans are underway for the construction of the 80-kilometer "Jvari-Tskaltubo" 500 kV power transmission line, which will connect the new substation to the existing "Jvari 500" substation. This initiative is part of the broader "Energy Supply Reliability and Financial Recovery Project."
Prime Minister Kobakhidze expressed gratitude to international partners, donors, engineers, and builders for their contributions to the project.
“This project not only strengthens our energy infrastructure but also highlights Georgia’s commitment to leveraging renewable energy resources. It reflects the continued support of our government for sustainable energy development,” he added.