Armenia Solar Orchard Power System

Does Armenia have solar energy?

Armenia has significant solar energy potential: average annual solar energy flow per square metre of horizontal surface is 1 720 kWh (the European average is 1 000 kWh), and one-quarter of the country’s territory is endowed with solar energy resources of 1 850 kWh/m 2 per year. Solar thermal energy is therefore developing rapidly in Armenia.

What is Armenia's largest solar power plant?

The 200-megawatt plant named Ayg-1 will be Armenia’s largest solar power plant with a capacity of around half of Armenia’s main energy generator, the Metsamor nuclear power plant․The plant is planned to be built in the Aragatsotn province in an area of over 500 hectares located in Talin, Dashtadem, Katnaghbyur and Yeghnik communities.

How will Masrik solar benefit Armenia?

Masrik Solar will help assure the reliability of Armenia’s electricity supply by increasing the country’s peak-load capacity at affordable tariffs, while also contributing to lowering the greenhouse gas emissions from the power system.

How much does solar power cost in Armenia?

It is Armenia’s first large utility-scale and competitively-tendered solar independent power producer. The project will operate under a 20-year power purchase agreement and is expected to have a total cost of $55 million.

What percentage of Armenia's Energy is renewable?

Renewable energy resources, including hydro, represented 7.1% of Armenia’s energy mix in 2020. Almost one-third of the country’s electricity generation (30% in 2021) came from renewable sources. Forming the foundation of Armenia’s renewable energy system as of 6 January 2022 were 189 small, private HPPs (under 30 MW), mostly constructed since 2007.

How important is R&D in energy technology and innovation in Armenia?

Research and development (R&D) in energy technology and innovation in Armenia is not significant, though it is becoming more important. The government’s plan to develop new renewable energy technologies will increase the need for technology and innovation funding, and for skilled human resources.