Georgia marked Energy Workers’ Day with an event at the Zemo Avchala Hydropower Plant, bringing together representatives of energy companies, public institutions and the wider electricity sector.
Sixteen professionals were recognised for their contribution to the sector. The event was attended by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Economy and Sustainable Development Minister Mariam Kvrivishvili, Deputy Minister Inga Phaladze and representatives of Georgian energy organisations.
The choice of Zemo Avchala HPP gave the occasion a particular sense of continuity. The historic plant remains closely associated with the development of Georgia’s electricity system, while the sector now faces a new phase of work: expanding generation, strengthening networks, integrating renewable energy and developing the flexibility needed for a more complex power system.
Recognition across the electricity sector
Among those recognised were professionals from institutions involved in market operation, project management, regulation and energy infrastructure.
ESCO said its Deputy Head of Analysis, Monitoring and Forecasting, Mikheil Abashmadze, received the honorary title. The Georgian Energy Development Fund also noted the recognition of its Project Management Director, Tamaz Akhlediani.
GNERC’s Electricity Department Director, Tornike Apriashvili, was also recognised. Alongside his regulatory work, Apriashvili has been involved in areas including network development, renewable-energy integration and smart-grid issues.
A sector built by people
Energy-sector discussions often focus on megawatts, interconnectors, substations and investment figures. Energy Workers’ Day is a useful reminder that the reliability and development of the system also depend on the engineers, dispatchers, analysts, project managers and technical specialists behind it.
As Georgia works to add renewable generation and modernise its electricity system, those skills will become even more important — from planning and construction to market operation, maintenance and grid integration.
Source note: Statements and event updates published by the Georgian Energy Development Fund, the Electricity Market Operator (ESCO), Georgia’s Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development, and sector representatives.