The Environmental and Social aspects is one of the important components during the power plant construction and operation.

An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the Project was carried out in 2018, 2019, and 2022. It identified the extent and intensity of potential environmental impacts on affected communities and was accompanied by an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) describing measures to prevent and mitigate negative impacts on natural and historical monuments, as well as the monitoring and control arrangements.

An Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) appropriate to the Project’s nature and scale, and commensurate with its environmental and social risks and impacts, was developed. It is underpinned by the following standards:

• IFC and MIGA Performance Standards on Environmental and Social Sustainability;
• IFC’s Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines, including industry-sector guidelines;
• ADB Safeguard Policy;
• Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA);
• Armenian environmental, health, and safety laws and regulations.

The system is continuously implemented and closely monitored to ensure plant performance remains in compliance with current standards and laws. For the operation of the power plant, all necessary permits, agreements, and licenses have been obtained.