BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 4. Mitigation measures are in place to minimize potential impacts of the Khizi-Absheron Wind Power Plant during construction and operation, Abid Malik, Regional Head of Saudi Arabia-based ACWA Power – Central Asia, said in an exclusive interview with TurkicWorld
He pointed out that the Khizi-Absheron Wind Power Plant is a key step in Azerbaijan's transition to a low-carbon economy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting carbon emissions by over 400,000 tons annually.
"It will generate up to 893 GWh of clean electricity each year, significantly contributing to Azerbaijan’s carbon reduction commitments," said Malik.
He went on to add that the Project follows the highest set of global standards in environmental, social and biodiversity in order to ensure minimal impact during construction and operation phase.
"Comprehensive baseline studies, including biodiversity, air quality, noise, soil, water quality, and socio-economic conditions, have been completed under the Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs). Mitigation measures are in place to minimize potential impacts during construction and operation.
We are committed to support community development through creating local employment opportunities, developing technical skills, and improving infrastructures. Extensive stakeholder consultations initiated by the Project resulted in the establishment of Community Development Committees (CDCs), which include representatives from villages of Chayli in Absheron District and Sitalchay in Khizi District, as well as the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBİA), aimed at supporting community and investment programs," said Malik.
He highlighted that one identified area for development by the CDCs is vocation training and entrepreneurship programs, which enhance skills in various trades and provide necessary tools to start businesses, thereby fostering local economic growth.
"Additionally, cooperation with local universities and Vocational Educational Training institutions is underway to develop programs for young women in renewable energy. Public Information Centres that we have established back in 2022 in Chayli and Sitalchay villages facilitate community engagement, address grievances, and support local recruitment," he said.
Malik noted that ACWA Power adheres to both national and international standards, including those set by the European Reconstruction and Development Bank (EBRD), the World Bank, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
"An Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) has been established to manage and mitigate impacts. Advanced technologies, such as the Identiflight System, will also be employed to protect bird wildlife. We are also committed to carrying out comprehensive environmental monitoring programmes throughout the project’s lifecycle to ensure continued adherence to our environmental commitments. Our efforts are aligned with local and national goals, ensuring our investments support and enhance the communities where we operate, creating lasting value and sustainability," he added.
