MEGHRI HIDRO-ELECTRIC POWER STATION TO BE BUILT IN 2005

ArmenPress
June 21 2004

YEREVAN, JUNE 21, ARMENPRESS: Armenian ministry of energy
representative discussed technical matters of hydro-electric power
station with Iran counterparts at the Southern border of Armenia at
the banks of Arax river, just the place where the station is going
to be built.

According to Armenian energy minister Armen Movsisian, the location
of the station is now clear. During the coming 1-2 months, details
will be discussed with Iranian government after which an agreement
will be signed.

A. Movsisian informed that the construction may start some time in
mid 2005. The construction will run 5 years. The station will have
140 megawatt capacity and will produce 841 mln k/watt/hour energy
per year. According to initial estimates, the station will cost 140
mln dollar. The power station will be built by Iranian funds. The
Armenian side will return the money in the form of energy produced
by the same station.

The effectiveness of the power station will be number one both in Iran
and Armenia. The minister said the hydro power of the Arax river is
expected to be used to maximum.

A. Movsisian said there are 30 small hydro-power stations in Armenia
now that produce about 600 mln kwatt/hour energy per year.