Yerevan Energy Storage System Project

Is Armenia developing a battery storage project?

Currently, Armenia is in the initial stages of developing a pilot project on battery storage, with plans for a utility-scale project with an estimated installed storage capacity of 1,200 MWh to be tendered in the coming years.

Can Armenia reduce its reliance on energy imports?

Additionally, a second gas pipeline from Iran provides another import route, primarily utilized through a barter agreement where Armenia exchanges electricity for natural gas, only partially using the imported volumes for domestic consumption. Presently, Armenia is actively seeking ways to diminish its reliance on energy imports.

How did Armenia reform its energy sector?

After enduring a severe energy crisis in the mid-1990s, Armenia initiated substantial reforms in its energy sector. Partial privatization, restructuring of company ownership, and the introduction of cost-reflective tariffs were implemented.

Does Armenia have a gird stability?

Although Armenia’s energy program for 2022-2030 includes plans to evaluate wind energy potential, tangible projects not yet on the pipeline, and the installed wind capacity remains negligible at 8.2 MW. As solar capacity continues to rapidly expand in the country, concerns regarding gird stability have commenced to rise.

How is electricity generated in Armenia?

Armenia’s generation mix is diversified, with gas contributing 42%, nuclear 32%, and hydro 22%. Since 2015, electricity generation from natural gas has increased by 38%, while hydro generation has declined by 15%. The total generation capacity stands at 4 GW, which exceeds peak demand needs (~1.3 GW).

What is Armenia's nuclear capacity?

However, due to an aging power park, the available capacity is comparatively lower at 3.1 GW. The entirety of Armenia’s 448 MW nuclear capacity is housed in the Metsamor nuclear power plant. Initially reactivated during the mid-1990s energy crisis, decommissioning of Metsamor has been repeatedly delayed.