Publication: Ashta Hydropower—Turning a Doubtful Concept into a Technological Trailblazer

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Date
2009-05
ISSN
Published
2009-05
Author(s)
Sobek, Martin
Abstract
International Finance Corporation (IFC) played a key role in helping the Republic of Albania structure and implements it first large public-private partnership (PPP) transaction in the energy sector, which brought a strong and reliable international investor into the country. Verbund, Austria's largest electricity company won a 35-year concession to build and operate the Ashta plant, the first major hydropower plant built in Albania in 30 years. Verbund will invest more than $220 million in the project, resulting in an expected savings on Albania's electricity imports in excess of $45 million during the first five years of the plant's operation. The Ashta hydropower plant is a great example of how IFC involvement can bring about real change by fostering innovative solutions.
Citation
Sobek, Martin. 2009. Ashta Hydropower—Turning a Doubtful Concept into a Technological Trailblazer. IFC Smart Lessons Brief. © World Bank, Washington, DC. http://openknowledge.worldbank.org/entities/publication/bbc07133-c663-5026-9ae6-4b1b3267d358 License: CC BY-NC-ND 3.0 IGO.
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