Armenia: ENA-Modernisation of Distribution Network Initial Environmental Examination/Non-Technical Summary: Draft Final Report.

Transcription

1 Armenia: ENA-Modernisation of Distribution Network Initial Environmental Examination/Non-Technical Summary: Draft Final Report Prepared by June

2 ADB/EBRD Armenia: ENA - Modernisation of Distribution Network Initial Environmental Examination/Non-Technical Summary Final Report June 2017 Prepared by Tetra Tech ES, Inc N Courthouse Rd, Suite 600 Arlington, VA 22201, United States Tel Fax Prepared by Tetra Tech ES, Inc 2

3 Table of Contents Table of Contents... 3 Abbreviations and Acronyms... 5 Executive Summary... 6 Project Category and Rationale... 6 Context... 6 Key Findings and Conclusions... 6 Summary of Environmental Management Plan (EMP)... 7 Information on local permitting procedures... 8 A. Introduction... 9 A.1 Purpose of the report... 9 A.2 The Nature, Size, Location and Importance of the Project... 9 A.3 Methodology Applied A.4 Structure of the Report B. Legal, Policy and Administrative Framework B.1 General B.2 Asian Development Bank Safeguard Policies C Description of the Project C.1 Type of project C.2 Category of Project C.3 Need for the Project C.4 Locations & Size of Operations C.4.1 Project Locations and Scope of Works C.5 Alternatives D. Description of the Environment D.1 Physical Resources D.1.1 Air quality & Climate D.1.2 Topography D.1.3 Geology & Seismicity D.2 Ecological Resources D.2.1 Flora and Fauna D.2.2 Forests & Protected Areas D.3 Economic Development D.3.1 Industries & Agriculture D.3.2 Infrastructure and Transportation facilities D.4 Social and Cultural Resources D.4.1 Population and communities D.4.2 Health & Education facilities D.4.3 Socio-economic conditions E. Screening of Potential Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures E.1 Introduction E.2 Mitigation Aspects F. Environmental Management Plans and Institutional Requirements F.1 Introduction F.2 EMP Institutional Requirements F.2.1 EMP

4 F.2.2 Implementation Responsibility F.3 Environmental Management Plan G. Public Consultation, Information Disclosure & Grievance Mechanism G.1 Public Consultations G.1.1 Public Consultation G.2 Planned Information Disclosure G.3 Grievance Mechanism / SEP G.3.1 Legal Requirements for Disclosure G.3.2 Stakeholders G.3.3 Project Consultation and Disclosure Program G.3.4 Grievance Mechanism H. Conclusions and Recommendations H.1 Conclusions H.2 Recommendations Annex A. Sample Grievance Mechanism Form Annex B. General Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) Guidelines

5 Abbreviations and Acronyms ADB EBRD EHS EIA ENA ESAP HR ISO MNP PCB PPE PR RA SPNA Asian Development Bank European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Environmental, Health And Safety Environmental and Impact Assessment Electricity Network of Armenia Environmental and Social Action Plan Human Resources International Organization for Standardization Ministry of Nature Protection Polychlorinated Biphenyls Personal Protective Equipment Public Relations Republic of Armenia Specially Protected Nature Areas 5

6 Executive Summary Project Category and Rationale This project has been determined to be Category B in accordance with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development s (EBRD) Environmental and Social Performance Requirements as a Category B in accordance with the Asian Development Bank s (ADBs) environmental and involuntary resettlement safeguards. With regards to Indigenous People, this project is a Category C in accordance with ADB s safeguards. This project does not involve any works that require full environmental and impact assessments per Armenian or European legislation. No work will be carried out in protected areas, resettlement and procurement of private land will not occur, and only minor reconstruction is expected of electricity transmission lines that are 110 kv. All impacts are expected to be prevented or mitigated through the implementation of the Environmental and Social Action Plan that has been prepared as part of this due diligence. Context ENA is the only electricity distributor in the RA with an electricity grid that spans approximately 36,000 km and one million end-users. As such, ENA operates throughout the entire country, having operational units serving all the communities of the country. Economic activities are prohibited in the state reserves and reserve zones of the national parks. ENA s electricity distribution lines and substations are all in non-reserve areas of SPNA. However, under Armenian law a full EIA is required for any works that take place in SPNAs, including any work carried out by ENA. While the electricity grid spans the entire country, ENA only operates on municipal land and therefore does not acquire land from the private sector nor do they implement works that would require resettlement. As electricity transmission lines are flexible, ENA simply reroutes the works if a situation arises that would impact private land or the public. Under a previous EBRD investment, ENA was provided with an ESAP and recommendations for improvements to their environmental, health, safety, social practices. These recommendations were largely not implemented. As such, their existing facilities especially related to oil storage and small substations (35 kv) are in need of renovations and repairs. There is widespread evidence of oil leaks and inadequate substation structures with leaking roofs and lack of security measures to prevent access to the substations. In terms of health and safety, personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided by ENA, but its use is not enforced, posing a risk to worker health. In addition, the company does not have welldefined internal environmental or social policies, but rather follows Armenian legislation or donor requirements if it is a donor-funded project. Key Findings and Conclusions Oil-contaminated wastes are the primary risk associated with the environmental management of ENA. The company has 27 oil storage sites (branch offices and main storage facility) and oil is used in all transformers that have not been replaced recently. Oil leakage was visible at most sites visited (with the exception of large substations which had proper oil management systems) and the majority of these sites do not have proper oil containment systems installed resulting in oil leaking directly onto the soil or gravel. ENA indicated that instead of removing this contaminated soil or gravel they add soil or gravel on top of the contaminated soil or gravel as needed. While this oil is not thought to currently contain PCBs, it is likely that in the past the oil did contain PCBs, and any sites contaminated with this oil will have PCBs present increasing the risk of exposure through 6

7 soil and groundwater contamination. Armenia does not currently have any method to test for the presence of PCBs nor do they have facilities that are capable of treating or disposing of oil-contaminated wastes. Decommissioned transformers and other equipment that used oil are also a risk to the environment as they likely used oil that contained PCBs and are now stored around various sites owned by ENA, often directly on the ground and not in a closed facility. While the aim of this project is to update much of the facilities that are in need of maintenance, many of the substations also lack proper barriers to prevent access to the live transformers and the internal system for warning if a transformer is turned on or off for works is manual, leaving the possibility for human error resulting in personal injury. ENA lacks well-defined internal environmental, health, safety, and social protocols. The environmental department has only one employee and does not have the bandwidth to properly implement and monitor all environmental activities needed by the company. On the health and safety side, ENA does not have any protocol to warn contractors that asbestos may be present in older facilities where works are being carried out. This poses a significant health risk to both ENA workers and contractors if they were to come in contact with exposed asbestos while carrying out renovations and repairs. Workers are also not provided with flash hazard clothing when working directly with electricity, and the use of PPE is not strictly enforced. While there are several mitigation actions that need to be taken in order for ENA to comply with Armenian and international best practices and regulation, ENA is willing to implement these measures and the most pressing environmental issues related to hazardous wastes including oil-contaminated materials, asbestos, and batteries are being included in the investment program to ensure they are implemented as part of the program activities. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the environment and on the population of Armenia. Due to the reduction in losses of the system, approximately 81,000 tco2e 1 will be reduced through The rehabilitation activities to remove hazardous waste will also result in a positive environmental impact on communities that are located in and around areas with oil contamination. Summary of Environmental Management Plan (EMP) With respect to environmental management, there are several key actions ENA should undertake in order to comply with national and international best practice and regulation. The primary environmental concern is with ENA s handling of hazardous wastes. In order to mitigate negative environmental impacts and as part of the EBRD investment plan, ENA needs to remove and dispose of or treat oil-contaminated soil and gravel from equipment such as transformers and oil storage sites, and install proper oil containment systems such as concrete bunding under all sites where oil leaks are possible. Once this oil-contaminated waste is removed, it must either be temporarily stored by ENA until such time that Armenia can properly treat or dispose of it, stabilized in-situ, or disposed of in a country that has the capabilities to manage hazardous wastes such as Georgia. Proper disposal should also be addressed with batteries, asbestos, and any other materials classified as hazardous in Armenian and international legislation. The ESAP includes an Annex with various options to dispose of or treat hazardous wastes. 1 Estimated using the CLEER Tool developed by USAID: 7

8 Information on local permitting procedures ENA currently complies with the National environmental impact assessment law and for this investment program, according to the law, the construction and reconstruction of overhead power lines of 110 kv and higher are considered Category B. The construction and reconstruction of overhead lines that are higher than 220 kv are considered to be Category A. Reconstruction is not clearly defined in the Armenian law and therefore may result in confusion between the implementer and the Ministry of Nature Protection on the classification of an activity. This project does not involve the full construction or reconstruction of 110 kv or higher lines and therefore does not require a full EIA for any works that are planned. With regards to wastes, ENA is not in compliance with their disposal of hazardous wastes, but the ESAP and EMP outline strategies which, if implemented, would bring ENA into compliance. 8

9 A. Introduction A.1 Purpose of the report This initial environmental examination (IEE) is part of the process of compliance with the ADB s Safeguard Policy Statement in relation to the ARMENIA: ENA Modernisation of Distribution Network Project. The IEE provides a road map to the environmental measures needed to prevent and/or mitigate negative environmental effects associated with the development project. The IEE also provides a detailed description of the direct and indirect environmental effects associated with the proposed subproject during key periods of work. More specifically, the IEE: Describes the extent, duration and severity of the impacts; Analyzes all significant impacts; Formulates the mitigation actions and presents it all in the form of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP). A.2 The Nature, Size, Location and Importance of the Project ENA has requested US$160 million from the EBRD and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to update their existing electricity network throughout Armenia to improve electricity quality for: Reconstruction and modernization of existing substations and lines and replacement of outdated equipment; Expansion of the automated electricity metering system (reading and billing); Expansion of the network and new connections; and Installation of a new automatic control system and other auxiliary investments. The investment plan involves the refurbishment of substations, updating of equipment including the vehicle fleet and meters, building renovations, and the reconstruction of several transmission lines, including a 110 kv line. The reconstruction of the transmission line generally involves the replacement of utility poles. The investment plan is not expected to cause any serious negative environmental and social impacts that cannot be mitigated through straightforward mitigation measures, and it does not require any resettlement or compensation as all the works are either small scale or on public lands not located in protected areas. To date only about 20% of the projects that will be carried out under the investment have been identified and their locations are known. However, these projects are mostly located in urban areas or are reconstruction/refurbishment of equipment in the existing electrical grid. These works will improve access to higher quality electricity. Of the works that have been defined, the location of 66 out of 67 was obtained by Tetra Tech and verified to not be located in a protected area and to not involve the construction of any high voltage lines. There is one project that the location was unable to be determined and should be noted for follow up to ensure that it is not in a protected area. This work involves construction of a low voltage line. There are several areas that have ENA facilities that are located in SPNAs, but these projects had EIAs carried out per Armenian regulation at the time of construction. The same goes for high voltage lines. No new project works are expected to require an EIA per Armenian regulation. As such, no documentation is required by ENA to move forward with 9

10 their works. Only in cases where the Environmental Coordinator determines that an EIA is needed under Armenian law (there is a list of activities and descriptions in Article 14 of the 2014 Law on Environmental Impact Assessment and Expertise) is project documentation required and follows the process below: 1. Project Implementer (ENA in our case) prepares a preliminary assessment application which includes a project summary and documentation that the first public consultation has been carried out 2. Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) reviews the application and makes the final determination on activity Category (MNP makes determination on activity Category according to article 14 of EIAE Law) if it is A or B the activity requires a full EIA, if it is Category C it does not require further documentation. MNP has 30 working days to make this determination and approximately 10 days before the decision is finalized the second public hearing is conducted. 3. Project implementer carries out full EIA, including the third public hearing and submits all needed documents (design document, EIA report, public hearings material, etc.) to Min of Nature Protection 4. MNP conducts the primary environmental examination, the fourth public hearing is held and the final conclusion on project is reached at which point the project may proceed. Per the ENA s current practices, for any new works that will be carried out, permission must first be obtained from the local authority to utilize the location for ENA s facilities. If permission is not granted, ENA must relocate the works. ENA does not have a mechanism in place to address resettlement as it is not something that they have ever done. In the event that land would need to be acquired either from the government or a private citizen, ENA must offer market value, however this has also not been an issue as ENA chooses to relocate works to areas that are on public land that is approved by the local authorities. In addition to the electricity improvement works that will be carried out under this project, a component has been added to facilitate the rehabilitation of the oil storage facilities. This component will include the removal of oil contaminated soil and gravel, the maintenance or replacement of equipment such as storage tanks or connectors, and the installation of concrete bunding under oil storage tanks. It s possible the removal of oil that is known to contain PCBs will either have to be stored in temporary storage facilities located on ENA property or sent to another country (such as Georgia) that has the capacity to properly treat and/or dispose of this waste. Soil contaminated with non-pcb contaminated oil as well as oil from equipment will also need to be either treated or disposed of properly. The Environmental and Social Action Plan provided to ENA as part of this environmental and social assessment provides recommendations and options to ENA to further investigate for the most effective way they may treat and/or dispose of all hazardous wastes associated with ENA activities. The map below shows the existing ENA network where most of the works will occur: 10

11 ENA - Modernisation of Distribution Network Figure A.1: Electricity Network of Armenia 11

12 A.3 Methodology Applied The methodology is based on the ADB, Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) and the joint experience of the International and National environmental consultants involved in the IEE. Background data and information was obtained from published and unpublished sources, e.g., on: climate, topography, geology and soils, natural resources, flora and fauna, agriculture, and socio-economic data. A site visit was carried out by the International Environmental Specialist, the EBRD, the National Environmental Specialist, and the Technical Specialists from March 13-17, The National Environmental Specialist has made several follow-up visits to ENA during the production of this report. During the site visits, existing infrastructure was assessed and areas of potential environmental and social significance were evaluated for their potential impacts in their current state and for any future works that may occur at the sites. Discussions were held with a number of ENA staff in order to determine their current environmental practices, level of oversight, and methods for implementing preventative and mitigation actions. Data and information obtained have been included where appropriate in the IEE Report. A.4 Structure of the Report The report is organized to comply with ADB Safeguard Policies (2009) as follows: Section A: Introduction The section in hand provides the introductory information for the Project. Section B: Legal, Policy and Administrative Framework - This section presents an overview of the policy/legislative framework as well as the environmental assessment guidelines of Armenia that apply to the proposed project. The section also identifies relevant Asian Development Bank Safeguard Policies that will apply. Section C: Description of the Project Section C describes the Category of the Project and the need for the Project. A scope of works is also provided indicating the type of works required. The final portion of this section discusses Project alternatives. Section D: Description of the Environment This section of the report discusses the regional environmental baseline conditions. This section is divided into subsections relating to physical environment, ecological environment, economic conditions and sociocultural characteristics. Section E: Corporate EHS Procedures and Practices Section E outlines the current practices of the company related to environmental, health and safety activities. Section F: Screening of Potential Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures Section F outlines the potential environmental impacts and proposes mitigation measures to manage the impacts. Section G: Environmental Management Plan & Institutional Requirements This section provides the EMP for the design, construction and operational phases of the Project. Section H: Public Consultation, Information Disclosure & Grievance Mechanism Section H provides a summary of all of the stakeholder consultation activities undertaken. A grievance mechanism for project affected persons is also provided along with information regarding the disclosure process. Section I: Conclusions and Recommendations The final section of the report provides the report conclusions and any necessary recommendations. 12

13 B. Legal, Policy and Administrative Framework B.1 General This section of the IEE presents an overview of the policy/legislative framework as well as the environmental assessment guidelines of Armenia that apply to the proposed project. The section also identifies relevant Asian Development Bank Safeguard Policies that will apply. The project will be required to comply with all relevant national and international environmental and social policies / guidelines. National Institutional Framework ENA relies heavily on Armenian legislation to define company policy, and in many cases instead of having an official company policy, they instead follow the national law. Tetra Tech s key findings related to the relevant legislation is outlined below, and a full review of Armenian regulation related to EHS will be included in the Due Diligence Report: Ministry of Nature Protection - The Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) is responsible for the protection, sustainable use, and regeneration of natural resources as well as the improvement of the environment in the Republic of Armenia. In those areas, the MNP authority includes overseeing national policy development, developing environmental standards and guidelines, and enforcement. The MNP implements those functions through the following structural departments: Legal Department; Department of International Cooperation; Department of Environmental Protection Policy (including Division of protection policy of climate change and atmosphere, Division of protection policy of biodiversity and biosecurity, Division of protection policy of environmental impact assessment and water resource); Division of Hazardous Substances and Waste Policy; Department of Underground Resources and Land Protection Policy; Department of Meteorology and Monitoring of Atmosphere Pollution. Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources - The Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources is a republican body of executive authority, which elabourates and implements the policies of the Republic of RA Government in the energy sector. The ministry is also responsible for the protection, sustainable use, and regeneration of natural resources, and implements its functions through the following separate divisions and agencies: Agency of Mineral Resources; Mining Granting Agency. National Legal Framework Following independence in 1991, the environmental legislation was reviewed, with the aim of developing a more comprehensive state policy towards ecological protection and sustainable use. To this end, a series of laws have been developed, including regulations relating to protected areas, a land code (both 1991) and a forest statute (1994). From 1999 to today, a number of national laws of RA were implemented to regulate the protection of the environment. Some key laws/regulations related to the Project are given below. 13

14 Law on Environmental Impact Assessment and Expertise (2014) - To reduce the differences between Armenian legislation and International environmental polices the new Law on Environmental Impact Assessment and Expert Examination (Annex B) has been approved in July The new law defines the environmental assessment process. The law requires projects to be assessed according to a two stage process: (i) the preliminary stage, which include screening and categorization as category A, B, or C according activity type, however, there is no official screening process defined in the legislation other than the list of activities specified; and (ii) a main examination phase, where Category A and B projects are further examined. The law provides the list of proposed activities by categories subject to environmental impact expertise and also provides an outline for the EIA report which includes sections on analysis of the project impacts for both physical, biological and social environments, and cumulative impacts. The EIA Law specifies notification, documentation, public consultations, and appeal procedures and requirements. The project implementer is responsible for determining if their project falls within Armenia s defined activities (listed in Article 14 of the Law). If the activity is specified on the list, the project implementer is responsible for: Developing a preliminary assessment application which is submitted to the Ministry of Nature Protection Organizing public notices and hearings according to the processes set out in the Law (Article 26 and Governmental Decree N1325) Submitting the preliminary application along with documentation of the public hearing process (minutes, recordings, participant lists with signatures, etc.) to the Ministry of Nature Protection The Ministry of Nature Protection then has 30 working days to respond to the preliminary assessment application and provide one of the following responses: Non-implementation of planned activities, which shall be made on the basis of the environmental requirements of RA Laws and other regulations. Return the application to the initiator to complete it, in the case the application has errors or is incomplete. The planned activity is subject to an impact assessment in the event it is a transboundary activity. If an activity is determined to be Category A or B, based on a review of the Terms of Reference for the activity, it is subject to an impact assessment examination. A conclusion that the activity is Category C and no further examination or impact assessment is needed. After the preliminary examination has been carried out, if an activity is determined to be Category A or Category B, the implementer must prepare the impact assessment according to the requirements set out in the Law. After submission, the Ministry of Nature Protection comes to an expert conclusion on the issue which may stipulate the conditions for implementing the activity including prevention and mitigation measures, and the activity may proceed. According to the Law on EIAs and, the construction and reconstruction of overhead power lines of 110 kv and higher are considered Category B. The construction and reconstruction of overhead lines that are higher than 220 kv are considered to be Category A. Reconstruction is not clearly defined in the Armenian law and therefore may result in confusion between the implementer and the Ministry of Nature Protection on the classification of an activity. The law specifically addresses specially protected areas in Article 14: 14

15 All the intended activities that are not mentioned in point 3 of Article 14, those implemented in the protected natural areas and forests, in the territory of historical monuments and the green areas of common use are also subject to expertise. In this case, the expertise is carried out by the procedures of Category B. The Law on Specially Protected Territories (2006) - The law determines different levels of protection of different kinds of specially protected territories and puts the responsibility on the state. The current, active law on specially protected territories was adopted on November 27, According to the new law, a national park is a territory of international and/or national significance where there are nature protective, scientific, historical- cultural, aesthetical, recreational values which, due to the integration of natural landscapes and cultural values, can be used for scientific, educational, recreational, cultural and economic purposes and for which a special regime of protection is foreseen. The law also foresees the following functional zones within the national park: reserve; sanctuary; recreation; and economic use (where economic activities consistent with the conservation objectives of the national park are allowed). Act on Water (2002) - This act mainly regulates water-use relations. In article 3 the Code states that The State ensures the conservation and protection of water from negative impacts and its use for the sake of the security of all persons. Important principles of water management include: the need to satisfy the daily requirements of present and future generations; protection and redemption of volume of national water resources; protection of water and adjacent ecosystems and their biodiversity; acceptance of integrity, interconnectivity of interrelations of land, air, water and biodiversity; regulation of water utilization by means of permits for water extraction. Law On Protection of Atmospheric Air (1994) - The objective of the law is early warning and elimination of air pollution, and international cooperation in the field of air protection. Important elements of the law include: norms for maximum permissible concentrations of emissions, regulation of polluting emissions, location and design of enterprises, and audit, monitoring and control of air quality. Law on Waste (2004) - The Law defines the state policy in the area of waste use, aimed at preventing the harmful impact of waste on the environment and human health, while maximizing its use as a secondary raw material. This Law includes the stipulation that waste passport procedures are implemented according to the regulations established by the Republic of Armenia. The Law also includes an order for the licensing of recycling, treatment, storage, transport, and disposal of hazardous wastes, as well as a list of wastes that are classified by the government of the RA as hazardous. This list includes materials that are contaminated by oil. Asbestos is not specifically addressed in Armenian legislation. Article 13 of the Law on Wastes requires the state registration of waste, passportization, and submission of statistical reports. This stipulates that legal entities involved in waste management (including foreign and private entrepreneurs) are obliged to implement initial registration for wastes generated, used, neutralized, transferred to other persons, or received from other persons, and final disposal. Legal entities and individual entrepreneurs involved in environmental waste management must obtain the approval of authorized state body for to the waste generation standards and the allowable disposal limits for the waste generated by the activity, prescribed by the Government of the Republic of Armenia. Law on Licensing (2001). This law creates a list of all activities in the RA that require a formal licensing procedure by the Armenian government. This applies to all hazardous waste treatment, decontamination, storage, transportation, and disposal. 15

16 Act on Forest (1994) - According to this act, the forest is the exclusive property of the Republic until it grows up to industrial utilization volume. Currently the Armenian forest is the subject of protection, rehabilitation, recreation and sustainable utilization only. Only temporary utilization (up to 5-10 years) under supervision of a state authorized body and of local authorities is allowed. The Law on Payments for Nature Protection and Use of Natural Resources (1999) - The law defines the concepts of nature protection and use fees, the scope of the payers, types of fees, procedures for calculations and payment of the fees, the liability in case of violation of this law and other relations connected to the fees. The types of nature protection fees are: a) For releasing harmful substances into the environment (aerial and water basins) b) For disposal of industrial and consumption wastes in the environment, according to defined procedures c) For industry of products that are harmful for the environment. The Act on Flora (1999) - The Act on Flora defines the State policy of the RA on scientifically motivated protection, maintenance, reproduction and use of natural flora. The Act on Fauna (1999) - The Act on Fauna aims to: ensure conservation of animals and their genetic diversity, maintain the integrity of animal populations, protect animals from inappropriate disturbance, protect migration routes and regulate use of animal species. The responsibilities of different agencies (including the government, ministries and other State bodies, local authorities and local self-government institutions) are outlined. The draft law makes provision for: survey, study and monitoring of animals; listings of animals and their use; elabouration of the Red Data Book for animals; setting goals for animal conservation; measures for dealing with disputes; and international agreements relating to animal conservation issues. Law on Preservation and Utilization of Immovable Monuments of History and Culture and of the Historic Environment (1998) - provides the legal and policy basis for the protection and use of such monuments in the RA and regulates the relations among protection and use activities. Article 15 of the Law describes procedures for - amongst other things the discovery and state registration of monuments, the assessment of protection zones around them and the creation of historic-cultural reserves. Article 22 requires the approval of the authorized body (Department of Historic and Cultural Monuments Preservation) before land can be allocated for construction, agricultural and other types of activities in areas containing monuments. The Ministry of Culture has jurisdiction over archaeological, historical, and cultural sites. It is not, however, involved with the fate of modern monuments erected along the highway by private citizens in commemoration of accident victims. The relocation of those monuments will be coordinated by the respective provincial authority (marzpeds). Land Code (2001) - defines the main directives for use of the lands allocated for energy production, water economy (water supply, water discharge, pumping stations, reservoirs, etc.), and other purposes. The Code defines the lands under the specially protected areas as well as forested, watered, and reserved lands. It also establishes the measures aimed at protection of the lands as well as the rights of state bodies, local authorities, and citizens towards the land. Relevant International Agreements With respect to handling of hazardous substances: Stockholm Convention "On Persistent Organic Pollutants" (since 2003) Basel Convention On the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal (since1999) 16

17 EU Directives Waste Batteries - Directive 2006/66/EU on Batteries and Accumulators and Waste Batteries and Accumulators (updated version, 2014) Treatment of waste batteries and accumulators raises several environmental concerns, mostly due to the metals they contain. Mercury, lead and cadmium are by far the most problematic of these substances. In Commission Decision 2000/532/EC, lead batteries, Ni-Cd batteries and batteries containing mercury are all classified as hazardous waste. Other metals commonly used in batteries, such as zinc, copper, manganese, lithium and nickel, may also constitute environmental hazards. The Directive aims to prevent these items from being incinerated or dumped in landfills by recycling the batteries. However, the directive notes that EU Member States may put them in landfills or underground storage if an impact assessment shows that landfill/underground storage is a better option than recycling or if no viable end-market is available Hazardous Waste Directive 2008/98/E on Waste the directive provides guidance on the requirements for preventing the mixing of hazardous waste with other wastes, labeling of hazardous wastes and general requirements for the protection of the environment and human health. Guidelines are also provided for the collection, transportation and disposal of waste oils. EIA - Directive 85/337/EEC This directive establishes the activities that require an EIA, in the case of the power sector, construction of overhead transmission lines of higher than 220 kv and a length of 15 km or greater require a full EIA. The directive also establishes a process to screen activities that are not listed in the directive, or activities that are at the discretion of the member country to determine if an EIA is needed. For the energy industry, surface storage of fossil fuels may be subject to an EIA, but it is up to the member country to screen the related activities and make the determination. Environmental Liability - Directive 2004/35/EC This directive establishes the polluter pays principle where the entity responsible for causing damage to the environment is liable for the cleanup or remediation activities. Environmental Noise - Directive 2002/49/EC Requires that member states report every 5 years on their noise levels in urban areas and on major transport routes with noise maps and noise management action plans. The directive stipulates that environmental noise information should be made public and prevention and mitigation measures should be put in place to reduce noise levels. Ambient Air Quality Directive 2008/50/EC - Sets out common methods and requirements for assessing air quality in order to improve air quality in the EU. The directive also establishes exposure limit values for common air pollutants like sulfur dioxide and particulate matter. Framework for Community Action in the Field of Water Policy Directive 2000/60/EC Reduces discharges, emissions and losses of hazardous substances in order to improve water quality. The directive also addresses the reduction of pollution specifically for groundwater. Landfill of Waste Directive 1999/31/EC Sets out technical standards for three classes of types of waste, hazardous, non-hazardous, and inert. Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control Directive 96/61/EC Sets out measures to prevent or reduce air, water and land emissions, including measures concerning waste. It also addresses the need to obtain permits for installations such as waste disposal facilities (including hazardous). 17

18 Best Available Technique The following guidelines and codes of practice are recommended as part of the Project. IFC EHS Guidelines for Power Transmission and Distribution IFC General EHS Guidelines Code of Practice Electricity transmission and distribution asset management New South Wales Government, Department of Energy and Water, Australia, 2009 B.2 Asian Development Bank Safeguard Policies 2009 The ADB has three safeguard policies that seek to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse environmental impacts and social costs to third parties, or vulnerable groups as a result of development projects 2. Safeguard Requirements 1: Environment. The objectives are to ensure the environmental soundness and sustainability of projects, and to support the integration of environmental considerations into the project decision-making process. Environmental safeguards are triggered if a project is likely to have potential environmental risks and impacts. Eleven Policy Principles have been adopted as part of the SPS, including: 1. Use a screening process for each proposed project, as early as possible, to determine the appropriate extent and type of environmental assessment so that appropriate studies are undertaken commensurate with the significance of potential impacts and risks. (The Project was initially screened by the ADB and classified as a Category B project for environment and involuntary resettlement and a Category C for indigenous people) 2. Conduct an environmental assessment for each proposed project to identify potential direct, indirect, cumulative, and induced impacts and risks to physical, biological, socioeconomic (including impacts on livelihood through environmental media, health and safety, vulnerable groups, and gender issues), and physical cultural resources in the context of the project s area of influence. Assess potential transboundary and global impacts, including climate change. Use strategic environmental assessment where appropriate. (The IEE herewith provides the environmental assessment for the Project.. Transboundary impacts are not applicable). 3. Examine alternatives to the project s location, design, technology, and components and their potential environmental and social impacts and document the rationale for selecting the particular alternative proposed. Also consider the no project alternative. (Alternatives have been considered, including the no project alternative in Section C.7 Alternatives) 4. Avoid, and where avoidance is not possible, minimize, mitigate, and/or offset adverse impacts and enhance positive impacts by means of environmental planning and management. Prepare an environmental management plan (EMP) that includes the proposed mitigation measures, environmental monitoring and reporting requirements, related institutional or organizational arrangements, capacity development and training measures, implementation schedule, cost estimates, and performance indicators. Key considerations for EMP preparation include mitigation of potential adverse impacts to the 2 ADB Safeguard Policy Statement, Manila 18

19 level of no significant harm to third parties, and the polluter pays principle. (An EMP has been prepared for the Project and is outlined in detail in Section F - Environmental Management Plans and Institutional Requirements). 5. Carry out meaningful consultation with affected people and facilitate their informed participation. Ensure women s participation in consultation. Involve stakeholders, including affected people and concerned nongovernment organizations, early in the project preparation process and ensure that their views and concerns are made known to and understood by decision makers and taken into account. Continue consultations with stakeholders throughout project implementation as necessary to address issues related to environmental assessment. Establish a grievance redress mechanism to receive and facilitate resolution of the affected people s concerns and grievances regarding the project s environmental performance. (a description of the Project grievance redress mechanism is presented in Section G - Public Consultation, Information Disclosure & Grievance Mechanism) 6. Disclose a draft environmental assessment (including the EMP) in a timely manner, before project appraisal, in an accessible place and in a form and language(s) understandable to affected people and other stakeholders. Disclose the final environmental assessment, and its updates if any, to affected people and other stakeholders. (This IEE and its EMP shall be disclosed on the ADB web-site) 7. Implement the EMP and monitor its effectiveness. Document monitoring results, including the development and implementation of corrective actions, and disclose monitoring reports. (The IEE and its EMP outline a plan to monitor the implementation of the EMP and the institutional responsibilities for monitoring and reporting throughout the Project lifecycle: Section F.2 - EMP Institutional Responsibilities) 8. Do not implement project activities in areas of critical habitats, unless (i) there are no measurable adverse impacts on the critical habitat that could impair its ability to function, (ii) there is no reduction in the population of any recognized endangered or critically endangered species, and (iii) any lesser impacts are mitigated. If a project is located within a legally protected area, implement additional programs to promote and enhance the conservation aims of the protected area. In an area of natural habitats, there must be no significant conversion or degradation, unless (i) alternatives are not available, (ii) the overall benefits from the project substantially outweigh the environmental costs, and (iii) any conversion or degradation is appropriately mitigated. Use a precautionary approach to the use, development, and management of renewable natural resources. (No critical habitats have been identified that would be significantly impacted by the Project) 9. Apply pollution prevention and control technologies and practices consistent with international good practices as reflected in internationally recognized standards such as the World Bank Group s Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines. Adopt cleaner production processes and good energy efficiency practices. Avoid pollution, or, when avoidance is not possible, minimize or control the intensity or load of pollutant emissions and discharges, including direct and indirect greenhouse gases emissions, waste generation, and release of hazardous materials from their production, transportation, handling, and storage. Avoid the use of hazardous materials subject to international bans or phase-outs. Purchase, use, and manage pesticides based on integrated pest management approaches and reduce reliance on synthetic chemical pesticides. (The IEE and its EMP outline specific mitigation and management measures to prevent and control pollution: Section F - Environmental Management Plans and Institutional Requirements. No pesticides will be used during the lifecycle of the Project) 10. Provide workers with safe and healthy working conditions and prevent accidents, injuries, and disease. Establish preventive and emergency preparedness and response measures to avoid, and where avoidance is not possible, to minimize, adverse impacts and risks to the health and safety of local communities. (The IEE and its EMP outline the requirement for specific health and safety measures - Section F - Environmental 19

20 Management Plans and Institutional Requirements. There is no requirement for emergency response plans) 11. Conserve physical cultural resources and avoid destroying or damaging them by using field-based surveys that employ qualified and experienced experts during environmental assessment. Provide for the use of chance find procedures that include a pre-approved management and conservation approach for materials that may be discovered during project implementation. (No physical and cultural resources have been identified that would be significantly impacted by the Project. A chance find procedure is provided in the EMP) Safeguard Requirements 2: Involuntary Resettlement. The objectives are to avoid involuntary resettlement wherever possible; to minimize involuntary resettlement by exploring project and design alternatives; to enhance, or at least restore, the livelihoods of all displaced persons in real terms relative to pre-project levels; and to improve the standards of living of the displaced poor and other vulnerable groups. The safeguard requirements underscores the requirements for undertaking the social impact assessment and resettlement planning process, preparing social impact assessment reports and resettlement planning documents, exploring negotiated land acquisition, disclosing information and engaging in consultations, establishing a grievance mechanism, and resettlement monitoring and reporting. The involuntary resettlement requirements apply to full or partial, permanent or temporary physical displacement (relocation, loss of residential land, or loss of shelter) and economic displacement (loss of land, assets, access to assets, income sources, or means of livelihoods) resulting from (i) involuntary acquisition of land, or (ii) involuntary restrictions on land use or on access to legally designated parks and protected areas. Resettlement is considered involuntary when displaced individuals or communities do not have the right to refuse land acquisition that results in displacement. ENA does not have a mechanism in place to address resettlement as it is not something that they have ever done. In the event that land would need to be acquired either from the government or a private citizen, ENA must offer market value, however this has also not been an issue as ENA chooses to relocate works to areas that are on public land that is approved by the local authorities. Safeguard Requirements 3: Indigenous Peoples. The objective is to design and implement projects in a way that fosters full respect for Indigenous Peoples identity, dignity, human rights, livelihood systems, and cultural uniqueness as defined by the Indigenous Peoples themselves so that they (i) receive culturally appropriate social and economic benefits, (ii) do not suffer adverse impacts as a result of projects, and (iii) can participate actively in projects that affect them. For operational purposes, the term Indigenous Peoples is used in a generic sense to refer to a distinct, vulnerable, social and cultural group possessing the following characteristics in varying degrees: 1. self-identification as members of a distinct indigenous cultural group and recognition of this identity by others; 2. collective attachment to geographically distinct habitats or ancestral territories in the project area and to the natural resources in these habitats and territories; 3. customary cultural, economic, social, or political institutions that are separate from those of the dominant society and culture; and 4. a distinct language, often different from the official language of the country or region. 20

21 In considering these characteristics, national legislation, customary law, and any international conventions to which the country is a party will be taken into account. Guidelines provide a rational approach for determining environmental category of the Project, the need for public consultation and disclosure, environmental management planning, and resolving involuntary resettlement, indigenous people and gender issues. Activities carried out under the project need to conform to current laws in Armenia and sound social and environmental principles. In general, the project activities will not trigger serious impacts on physical and human environment. 21

22 C Description of the Project C.1 Type of project C.2 Category of Project Based on the existing ADB Environmental Safeguards Policy (2009) and Involuntary Resettlement, this Project falls under ADB s project Category B. This category is defined as: Projects with potential to cause less significant fewer environmental impacts than Category A, yet still require a prescribed level of environmental management to protect the environment. For these projects an initial environmental examination (IEE) could be considered as final environmental assessment report if the stated document determines that an environmental impact assessment (EIA) is not required for the project under examination. With relation to indigenous people, this project was determined to be a Category C. C.3 Need for the Project The electricity network of Armenia is in need of updating and modernization in order to increase the network reliability and operational efficiency, reduce losses, improve electricity quality, replace outdated equipment, and improve the grid capabilities to absorb more renewable energy projects. Currently there are areas where infrastructure like substation out-buildings are in disrepair, transformers are outdated and inefficient, meters are not automated, and electricity lines are not capable of providing high enough voltage to satisfy end-users needs. Because of these network deficiencies, workers are faced with safety hazards due to old and unsafe equipment, and end-users are not receiving the quality of service they are paying for. C.4 Locations & Size of Operations This is a $160 million loan from EBRD and ADB to ENA, located in Armenia. As the electricity network of Armenia spans most of the country, the locations of works under this loan are spread out through mostly urban areas in the country. C.4.1 Project Locations and Scope of Works To date only about 20% of the works have been defined. These works will occur in the following locations and will include the works specified: 22

23 Table C-1. Planned Works and Locations Activity Location Construction of 10 kv overhead line Armavir Marz,, Aragats Reconstruction of 35/10 kv Armavir Marz, Aragats Reconstruction of overhead line 10kV Byurakan Installation of a 100/10 kva package transformer substation, construction of 0.4 kv overhead line Aragatsotn marz of Aragatsavan Construction of Transformer Substation 0284, 0.4 kv overhead line Aragatsotn marz, Orga Reconstruction of Transformer Substation 4287, 0.4 kv overhead line Aragatsotn marz, Oganavan Reconstruction of the 10 kv air line KRP-1 and KPP-2, Ararat Marz, the city of Masis Installation of 400 / 10kV package transformer substation, installation of V / L 10kV Ararat Marz, Masis Reconstruction of the electrical network 0,4kV TP-6323 Armavir Marz, Armavir Dismantling of Transformer Substation and installation of a new TP Armavir Marz, Armavir Dismantling of TP -2 (4702) and installation of a new TP Armavir marz, p. Ahavnatun Construction of substations and cable lines 6 (10), 0.4 kv city of Ejmiatsin. Installation of a package transformer substation 250/10 kva / TP 5541 /, construction of 0.4 kv overhead line Armavir marz is enclosed by Aygeshat Installation of a 250/10 kva package transformer substation, construction of 0.4 and 10 kv overhead lines Armavir marz, Parakar, ul. David Beck, Garegin Nzhdeh, Babajanyan, Tumanyan Replacement of KL TP-4540-TP 4551, Gegharkunik Marz, the city of Sevan KL TP-4551-TP 4555 Gegharkunik Marz, the city of Sevan Replacement of 10 kv overhead line TP-6078 with a cable line Gegharkunik Marz, with. Karchakhpyur Replacement of KL TP-4555 TP-4559, Gegharkunik Marz, the city of Sevan Installation of a package transformer substation-250/10 kva and electric networks kv, Kotayksiy Marz, p. Ptgni Installation of 250/10 kv A transformer substation and reconstruction of 10 / 0.4 kv overhead line, Kotayksiy Marz, with. Mayakovsky Reconstruction of 10 kv overhead line Panir-2, Syunik Marz, with. Syunik Reconstruction of the air line of 10 kv "Srashen" Syunik marz Construction of 10 kv overhead line "Khotanat" el. Kapan Network Syunik marz Reconstruction of 10 kv overhead line "Kakhak-1" and "ShV-2" from Substation "SISIAN" Syunik marz Reconstruction of the segment "AB" and "VG" VL "Gosh" 10 kv. Tavush Marz Reconstruction of the distribution network 0,4 kv TP, located in the neighborhood of the house N53A on the street. M. Mkrtchyan and the house N1 on the street. Isahakyan, TP-102 Shirak Marz, Gyumri Installation of KTP 160/10 kva, construction of 10 and 0.4 kv overhead lines. Shirak Marz, with. Nor Kiank, quarter Mkrknerer Reconstruction of overhead lines 0.4 kv Transformer Substation 54 SIP with wires, Shirak Marz, Gyumri, ul. Isahakyan and st. Abovyan Reconstruction of overhead lines 0.4 kv Transformer Substation-220 SIP with wires, Shirak Marz, Gyumri Reconstruction of overhead lines 0,4 kv TP-153 SIP wires, Shirak Marz, Gyumri Reconstruction of 0.4 kv overhead line TP-251 SIP with wires, Shirak Marz, Gyumri Reconstruction of 0.4 kv overhead line TP-242 SIP with wires, Shirak Marz, Gyumri Reconstruction of the 10 kv cable line between TP-219 and TP-165 Shirak Marz, Gyumri Reconstruction of VL 0,4 kv TP-221 SIP wires, Shirak Marz, Gyumri, ul. Gorky Reconstruction of the 10 kv cable line between RP-25 and TP-64, Shirak Marz, Gyumri Reconstruction of the 10 kv cable line between TP-38 and TP-65B, Shirak Marz, Gyumri 23

24 Activity Location Reconstruction of HVL 0.4 kv Transformer Substation-146 SIP with wires Shirak Marz, Gyumri Reconstruction of HVL 0.4 kv Transformer Substation-215 SIP with wires Shirak Marz, Gyumri Reconstruction of 0.4 kv overhead line TP-19 SIP with wires, Shirak Marz, Gyumri Reconstruction of HVL 0.4 kv Transformer Substation-145 SIP with wires Shirak Marz, Gyumri, Akhtanaka Avenue and ul. Tsulukidze Reconstruction of 0.4 kv overhead line TP-264 SIP with wires, Shirak Marz, Gyumri Reconstruction of VL 0,4 kv TP-200 SIP wires, Shirak Marz, Gyumri, ul. Varpets Installation of a package transformer substation 160/10 kva, construction of a 6 kv cable line, 0.4 kv and 0.22 Shirakovskiy Marz, Gyumri st. G. Nzhdeh 7/33 kv Installation of mast TP on the street. 5,12, 13 area Silikyan Installation of a package transformer substation -400 kv A, installation of a 10 kv cable line and a 0.4 kv overhead line going from a 110 kv "Nork" substation to a new package transformer substation Gyurjyan Reconstruction of TP-5, in Nairit-5, transfer of subscribers from TP 1,2,4 to TP 5 Yerevan Reconstruction of overhead lines 0,4 kv, Yerevan, Nork Marash, ul. 6 and 9 Replacement of 0.4 kv cable line from Transformer Substation-1733 Yerevan, Noragavit Str. 1 Construction of PT 63/10 and 10 kv overhead transmission line, 0.4 kv Yerevan City. Nubarashen 9 Reconstruction of 0.4 kv overhead transmission line Yerevan p. Nor harberd st. 2 Installation of a package transformer substation 250/6 kva, construction of a 6 kv overhead line, 0.4 kv Yerevan city G.Magari St. 133/15 Yerevan Davitashen-Ajapnyak 1.2, Reconstruction of 35 kv cable lines Davitashen-Mergelyan 1.2, Vardashen-Charents 1.2, Vardashen-Nar Dos 1.2 Reconstruction of VL Shengavit 2, Kentronakan 2 (Haghtanak TP) Yerevan, Haghtanak District Construction of a 2x630 kva and a 6 kv cable line Yerevan, Noragyukh District Installation of a package transformer substation 250 / 10kVA and construction of 10kV and 0.4kV overhead lines Village of. Arteni el. Network "Talin" Yerevan Reconstruction of the Vanguard Avangard 35 kv Installation of vacuum cells in PS Zork 35/10 kv Yerevan Installation of a 110 kv cell in the sub. Sotk 110/35/6 kv and Atek 110/35/10 kv Yerevan "Oshakan" Construction of a 10 kv overhead line 450 m. Aragatsotn "Karbi" Construction of a 10 kv overhead line 500 m. Aragatsotn Construction of "Aragis" 6 kv overhead line Yerevan Reconstruction of VL 0.4 kv Shaumyan street 2 and VL "Shaumyan" 6 kv Yerevan Installation of KTP 160/10 kva, construction of HVL 6 Ararat province, Jrashen village Translation of 10 kv overhead line Morgovit Construction of 10 kv overhead line Lernapar Aragatsotn Installation of a package transformer substation 400/10 kva, construction of a 6 kv overhead line, 0.4 kv Village. Zovuni / Fr / 24

25 Activity "Oshakan" Construction of a 10 kv overhead line 450 m. Location Aragatsotn 25

26 C.5 Alternatives In terms of project alternatives, no resettlement is projected and therefore full scoping of alternatives is not necessary. However, various technology types have been considered in order to most efficiently and cost effectively implement the project. The No Alternative scenarios was also analyzed. Both bare conductors and insulated conductors will be considered for the medium voltage overhead distribution lines in the industrial and mountainous areas included in the network rehabilitation investment projects. Aluminum covered line wire may also be considered for use on overhead distribution lines in the mountains to secure protection against circuit interruption due to weather. (Covered line wire is not an electrically insulated conductor and is treated as a bare conductor when installed). Low voltage overhead lines projects will included in the investment program will also consider using either bare conductors carried on glass or ceramic insulators or an aerial bundled cable system. Liquid insulated and cooled (liquid-filled type) and non-liquid insulated, air or air/gas cooled (dry type). (Including all subcategories of each of these types) will be considered in the transformer replacements projects included in the investment program. Note that only non PCB oil filled transformers will be used. The No Action Alternative in this instance is defined as a decision not to undertake the proposed works on the ENA network. The No Action Alternative would result in the continued deterioration of the electricity network resulting in further electricity losses, unsafe conditions at existing facilities, and degrading quality of electricity for the end users. All positive benefits would be foregone. The relatively minor, less than significant environmental impacts (such as noise and short-term air quality impacts due to maintenance activities) and inconveniences (such as traffic diversions) would be avoided in the short-run. In the longrun, however, the steadily declining state of the electricity network would severely hamper economic development throughout the country as ENA is the only electricity distributor in Armenia. In light of these considerations, the No Action Alternative is deemed to be neither prudent not in the best interest of Armenia or those with an interest in, and attempting to assist restoration of, Armenia s well-being. 26

27 D. Description of the Environment This section of the report discusses the existing environmental and social conditions within the Project corridor of the Project under the following headings: Physical Resources (air quality, hydrology, topography, etc); Ecological Resources (flora, fauna, protected areas); Economic Resources (infrastructure, land use, etc); Social and Cultural Resources (health, education, noise, cultural resources, etc). D.1 Physical Resources D.1.1 Air quality & Climate Air Quality According to data from the World Health Organization, in 2014 urban areas in Armenia had an annual mean concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in urban areas of 25 µg/m 3. This is in compliance with the EU Commissions guidelines which establish an exposure limit of 25 µg/m 3 per year. Climate Because of Armenia s position in the deep interior of the northern part of the subtropical zone, enclosed by lofty ranges, its climate is dry and continental. Nevertheless, regional climatic variation is considerable. Intense sunshine occurs on many days of the year. Summer, except for high- altitude areas, is long and hot, the average June and August temperature in the plain being 77 F (25 C); sometimes temperature rises to uncomfortable levels. Winter is generally not cold; the average January temperature in the plain and foothills is about 23 F (-5 C), whereas in the mountains it drops to 10 F (-12 C). Invasions of Arctic air sometimes cause the temperature to drop sharply: the record low is -51 F (-46 C). Winter is particularly inclement on the elevated, windswept plateaus. Autumn long, mild, and sunny is the most pleasant season. The climatic data shown below are provided by the World Bank. The chart shows the average rainfall by month from 1990 to Figure D-1: Precipitation 27

28 Climate Change As climate change impacts increase in the future, Armenia is projected to see significant impacts on the temperature, rainfall, and river flow. The average baseline temperature from 1961 to 1990 was 5.5 degrees Celsius, the table below shows the average projected increase compared to the in temperature through Figure D-1: Projected changes in annual average temperatures in Armenia compared to the average for (5.5 C) Time Period Scenario Average Temp Increase ( C) RCP RCP RCP RCP RCP RCP Precipitation is also projected to be affected by climate change, and based on the same model used in the temperature projection above, the table below shows the average projected increase in precipitation compared to the average of 592 mm/year through Figure D-2: Projected changes in annual precipitation in Armenia compared to the average of (592 mm/year) Average Precipitation Time Period Scenario Change (mm) RCP RCP RCP RCP RCP RCP Increases in temperature and changes in precipitation will impact river basins and reservoirs. This directly impacts the energy sector in Armenia as approximately 30% of electricity generated comes from hydropower sources. 4 The two largest hydropower producers are the Sevan-Hrazdan Cascade with an installed capacity of 560 MW and the Vorotan HPPs Cascade with an installed capacity of 404 MW. According to Republic of Armenia s Third National Communication on Climate Change under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the two models used projected an increase in water temperature for Lake Sevan of between 3.6 C and 4.0 C against the baseline by This will result in an inflow decrease in 2030 of more than 50 million m 3 against the baseline of 787 million m 3, 110 million m 3 by 2070, and 190 million m 3 by This is based on the CCSM4 model assessment of two scenarios RCP8.5 and RCP6.0 which assume that by 2100 the CO2 concentration will be 670ppm and 936 ppm respectively. 4 ADB Sector Assessment (Energy)

29 In the Vorotan river basin, snowfall is expected to increase in parallel with the increase in precipitation under the RCP8.5 model (see Figure D-2) through This will result in an increased mid- and upstream river flow, however, downstream river flow will decrease due to warmer temperatures leading to higher levels of evaporation. Changes in temperature, precipitation, and river flow will impact the quality and supply of electricity to Armenia as the country draws 30% of its energy from hydropower sources. In terms of impacts to infrastructure, higher temperatures and increased precipitation may lead to faster degradation of transmission poles, substations, exposed transmission/distribution lines, and other structures owned by ENA. While counteracting the effects of climate change on the electricity supply is out of ENA s control, ENA will need to plan accordingly for the increased need for maintenance as climate impacts increase. Emissions in the energy sector account for 70% of all national emissions according to Armenia s Third National Communication on Climate Change of the Republic of Armenia. 5 As seen in the figure below, Armenia has plans to implement a new power unit at the Armenia Nuclear Power Plant (ANPP), which would increase Armenia s energy independence and allow the country to generate 1,000 MW more of nuclear energy. Figure D-3: GHG emissions in the Energy sector in , and projections for 2030 D.1.2 Topography The topography of the Republic Armenia is characterized by high altitude, rocky plains with highland fields and pastures and mountain valleys with alluvial plains. The remaining few trees and open forest lands are often located in valleys and northfacing slopes. The entire construction area is located between 1,093 m and 2,200 m altitude. Major mountains around the construction area are Mt. Azhdahak (3,597 m), Mt. Vardenis (3,521 m), Mt. Gandasar (2,946 m), Mt.Vayots (2,586m), Mt. Gogi (3,120 m), and Mt. Mets Ishkanasar (3,548 m). The first part of the line from Hrazdan Substation to Selim Pass is part of the Lake Sevan Watershed; from Selim Pass to Vorotan Pass part of the Arpa river watershed and from Vorotan Pass to Shinuhair Substation part of Vorotan Watershed. The terrain of Armenia can be divided into the following four main geographical/geological regions: 5 Republic of Armenia Third National Communication on Climate Change (2015) Under the UNFCCC 29

30 1. Mountainous ridges and valleys in the north-east which occur mainly in the basin of the River Kur (including the ranges of Virahajots, Bazumi, Pambak, Gougarats, Aregouni and Sevan). This region is subject to extensive erosion. 2. Regions of volcanic origin, including the mountain ranges of Ashotsk, Aragats, Geghama, Vardenis, Syunik and Mount Aragats. These areas are covered by lava of relatively recent origin (upper Pliocene) and are characterized by gentle slopes. Here, only minor erosion occurs, although larger rivers have built deep gorges and canyons. 3. A series of ridged mountains adjacent to the River Arax (ridges on the left bank along with the Urts-Eranossian, Teksar, Vayk, and Zangezour mountain ranges, including the peak of Kapoutdjugh) constitute the Minor Caucasian system. This area is prone to intense erosion. 4. The Ararat Valley represents the lowest part of the Ararat depression (which is still undergoing tectonic movement). This area is covered with alluvial and prolluvial sediments. Figure D-4: Topography Source: D.1.3 Geology & Seismicity Armenia is located in a seismically active zone stretching from Turkey to the Arabian Sea. Here, the Arabian landmass slowly collides with the Eurasian plate. As large earthquakes with magnitudes over 5.5 occur in Armenia every 30 to 40 years reaching magnitudes up to 7.1 on the Richter Scale, a high-level seismic hazard is indicated for the country. Maximum seismic risk is given around the city of Yerevan, where active faults exist. Here, the Garni earthquake in 1679 was the most destructive one, with a magnitude oscillating between

31 and 7. Another destructive earthquake with a magnitude of occurred in Spitak in Recently ( ), an earthquake with a magnitude of 3.2 occurred 37 km north of Gyumri. After the 1988 Spitak earthquake the seismic risk assessment for Armenia was revised. According to this new assessment, the expected acceleration of earthquakes is 0.4 g almost everywhere in Armenia. The map below indicates the low seismic hazard classification of the Project area. Figure D-5: Seismology D.2 Ecological Resources D.2.1 Flora and Fauna Armenia shows a rich diversity of flora and fauna in a relatively small territory. The prevailing biotypes are semi-desert, mountain-steppe, mountain-meadow and Alpine vegetation. Regarding fauna, for example, at least 345 bird species have been recorded in Armenia of which over 240 species breed here. At the Lake Sevan large breeding colonies of the Armenian Gull and the Citrine Wagtail can be found. Armenia is further situated on an 31

32 important bird migration flyway. The migration path between Eastern Europe and Africa leads through the country in east-western direction. According to information from WWF, typical bird migration routes can be found south of Lake Sevan. Big mammals occur rather in the southern part of Armenia, which for example belongs to the distribution area of the Persian leopard in the Caucasus. According to Khorozyan & Malkhasyan (2002) the Khosrov Reserve, located south-east of on the south-western slopes of the, is a habitat for this species. From 2000 to 2002 tracks of 10 individuals of the Persian leopard could be found here in an area of 780 km2. Leopards are also known to live on the Meghri Ridge, where the number of individuals has declined due to various disturbances and prey scarcity. WWF Caucasus Armenia estimates 5-7 individuals to live in this area today (2005 estimate). D.2.2 Forests & Protected Areas Armenia is a mountainous country characterized by rich diversity of plants and animals as well as landscapes and types of vegetation. Within the small land-area of Armenia there are more than 3,500 species of high vascular plants and more than 17,500 species of animals including 536 species of vertebrates. In the Red Book of Armenia there are 452 species of higher plants, 40 species of fungi, 153 species of vertebrates and 155 species of invertebrates; a number of species are registered in the IUCN Red List. Specially protected nature areas (SPNA) - state reserves, national parks, state sanctuaries and natural monuments (see Annex 2) are crucial for protection of the rich biodiversity of Armenia. They are aimed at protection of plants and animals (endemics, relict, and rare, threatened and other species) in their natural habitats. A number of SPNAs in Armenia were established for protection of forests with typical plants and animals. Any kind of economic activity is prohibited in the reserves and protected zones of national parks. Certain other types of activities are prohibited in non-protected areas of SPNA and national parks. This does not include the power distribution and supply system. ENA s power lines and substations in all non-protected areas of SPNA. Figure D-6: Protected Areas of Armenia 32

33 ENA - Modernisation of Distribution Network There are 400 rivers in Armenia with a length of more than 10 km. They are mostly small, fast running mountainous rivers. 14 large river basins form the country. Lakes in Armenia are mostly mountainous and small except for Lake Sevan. 74 water reservoirs were built in different time with a useful capacity of 988 Mm3. Natural water resources amount to Mm3/year from which Mm3 come from springs, Mm3 from drainage outflow and Mm3 from groundwater. There are more than 700 natural and artificial sources of mineral water located in the country. One of the main water resources of Armenia is Lake Sevan (1,260 km2, 1,898 m above sea level). It is the largest pool of fresh water within the Southern Caucasus. The lake has vital influence on local and regional eco- systems and economy. Due to the irrigation and installation of hydropower plants on the outflow of the Lake Sevan, the water-level dropped during Soviet times by 19 m and the lake lost more than 30% of its volume. The area of the lake was reduced by more than 180 km2. Since the early 1960s, the water level of Lake Sevan has been maintained at a fairly constant level. D.3 Economic Development D.3.1 Industries & Agriculture Under the old Soviet central planning system, Armenia developed a modern industrial sector, supplying machine tools, textiles, and other manufactured goods to sister republics, in exchange for raw materials and energy. Armenia has since switched to small-scale agriculture and away from the large agroindustrial complexes of the Soviet era. Armenia has only two open trade borders - Iran and Georgia - because its borders with Azerbaijan and Turkey have been closed since 1991 and 1993, respectively, as a result of Armenia's ongoing conflict with Azerbaijan over the separatist Nagorno-Karabakh region. Armenia joined the WTO in January The government has made some improvements in tax and customs administration in recent years, but anti-corruption measures have been 33