Yesterday, a meeting was held at the Public Services Regulatory Commission of the Republic of Armenia with the World Bank’s Uzbekistan energy team. The latter had also expressed a desire to meet with representatives of Veolia Water Company to familiarize themselves with the design and implementation process of small hydropower and alternative energy projects initiated by Veolia Group. The CEO of Veolia Water Company, Marianna Shahinyan, received the Uzbekistan energy team. The meeting was attended by World Bank representative Jorn Hunteiler, WB consultant Abgar Budaghyan, WB energy experts, as well as representatives of the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan, state bodies, and commercial banks. The Company’s CEO presented in detail the policy adopted by the company regarding energy production exclusively for its own needs and its efficient use. The delegation members were also introduced to the experience gained in the field and the ongoing projects. Ms. Shahinyan particularly emphasized the importance of effective public-private partnership as a key factor for success, noting that state support significantly stimulates investments in the sector. During the Q&A session, delegation members showed interest in the company’s overall experience, implemented projects, and approaches applied in the energy sector. Afterwards, the delegation visited the “Nor Hachn” small hydropower plant built by the company, where the Head of the Energy Service, Karen Avetisyan, presented the construction timeline, capacity, and the volume of energy produced. The members of the World Bank’s Uzbekistan energy team left Veolia Water Company with positive and inspiring impressions, highly appreciating the implemented projects, professional approach, and potential for cooperation.
