Georgian Economy Minister: Georgia’s electricity sector should become fully self-sufficient by 2036

Georgian Economy Minister Mariam Kvrivishvili on Thursday said that Georgia’s electricity sector should become fully self-sufficient by 2036, noting that this is an ambitious goal, but ambition is valuable when it is backed by a plan, resources and professionals.

In her speech at an event marking Energy Workers’ Day, Kvrivishvili highlighted that reforms are continuing at state-owned energy companies, while resources saved through the optimisation of staffing and procurement processes should be redirected to areas where they can have the greatest impact - infrastructure, development and energy security.

The Minister noted that alongside increased generation capacity, greater investment and the introduction of modern technologies were needed.

“We need more generation. We need a stronger grid, more investment, modern technology and regional projects. But first and foremost, we need people like you - professionals who ensure the stable operation of the system, behind which lies difficult, responsible and often unseen daily work”, Kvrivishvili said.

“Today’s world is showing us more and more clearly that those who have energy have opportunities. Those who have energy security also have greater economic and political freedom. Therefore, a strong energy sector means a strong state. It means an economy capable of development”, she continued.

Kvrivishvili further added that it means a Georgia that has not only energy security but also a strategic role in the region.

“This is the Georgia we are building, and your professionalism, experience and sense of responsibility are indispensable to this effort”, she concluded.