Gross Energy Group (GEG), a titan in Georgia’s energy sector, is set to ignite a new era with the launch of its inaugural hydropower plant, Tashiskari HPP, in 2025. This milestone isn’t just about flipping a switch; it’s about igniting a chain reaction that could electrify the regional energy market and spark socio-economic development.
GEG’s trajectory, from its inception in 2007 to its current status as a billion-dollar investment powerhouse, signals a shift in Georgia’s energy landscape. The company, founded by Anguli Tkebuchava and now spearheaded by his sons, Davit and Irakli, has not only closed the gap in modern energy infrastructure but also introduced international standards and transparency. This approach has attracted significant foreign investment, positioning Georgia as a promising player in the global renewable energy arena.
The Black Sea Submarine Cable Project, championed by GEG, could be the game-changer. This underwater energy highway, akin to the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan pipeline’s impact, plugs Georgia directly into Europe’s grid. It’s not just about power transmission; it’s about integrating Georgia into the European energy market, enabling real-time electricity trade, and enhancing digital infrastructure. This two-way energy corridor could transform Georgia into a strategic bridge between Asia and Europe, reshaping geopolitical dynamics.
GEG’s community-centric approach, inspired by Norway’s model, ensures local communities benefit from energy projects. This inclusive economic model, where revenues are reinvested locally, fosters partnerships and empowers communities. The Skurdidi project exemplifies this, where locals are trained, employed, and actively participate in management and operation. This model could set a new standard for sustainable energy development, challenging conventional norms and fostering a more equitable energy transition.
The ripple effects of GEG’s initiatives extend beyond hydropower. Their exploration into floating solar power stations, concentrated solar power, and wind energy projects underscores a commitment to diversifying Georgia’s renewable energy portfolio. This diversification could stabilize the grid, complementing intermittent renewables like wind and solar, and amplify Georgia’s renewable energy capacity.
GEG’s priorities for 2025—launching Tashiskari HPP, advancing key projects, and investing in education—indicate a holistic strategy. By fostering the next generation of engineers, they’re not just building infrastructure; they’re cultivating a skilled workforce, ensuring sustainable growth. This approach could catalyze a brain gain, reversing the brain drain phenomenon prevalent in many post-Soviet states.
The implications for the market are profound. GEG’s blend of technical excellence, community focus, and strategic vision could ignite a virtuous cycle of investment, innovation, and growth. It could attract more foreign investment, boosting Georgia’s energy independence and export potential. Moreover, it could inspire similar models in other emerging markets, challenging the status quo and sparking a broader trend towards sustainable, community-driven energy development.
However, the road ahead isn’t without challenges. Balancing environmental concerns, community needs, and commercial viability is a delicate dance. GEG’s approach to hydropower development, emphasizing transparency and community engagement, offers a promising path forward. But it will require continuous innovation, dialogue, and adaptation to navigate the complexities of energy transition effectively.
As GEG stands on the cusp of a new chapter, its story serves as a compelling case study for energy journalists. It’s a narrative of ambition, innovation, and impact, offering rich insights into the evolving energy landscape. The developments at GEG are more than just corporate milestones; they are catalysts for market transformation, regional integration, and sustainable growth. For journalists, this story offers a lens to explore the intersection of energy, economics, and community development, sparking debate and challenging norms in the energy sector.
