ZANGILAN — Azerbaijan has unveiled its latest advancement in green energy with the construction of the 'Sarigishlag' Hydroelectric Power Station (HEPS) on the Okhchuchay River, part of a four-station hydroelectric cycle designed to bolster the country’s sustainable energy infrastructure.

According to Trend News Agency, Ramiz Valiyev, Director of Green Energy LLC under Azerenerji OJSC, stated that the Sarigishlag HEPS was built using the cascade method and adheres to the concept of a green energy zone. The construction process—from installing diversion pipes to constructing the turbine room and setting up an open distributor—was carried out in full compliance with regulatory standards.

Valiyev explained that diversion pipes were strategically installed to ensure that 35 percent of the water from the main intake remains in the riverbed, protecting local ecosystems. The station is equipped with two eco-turbines that can deactivate autonomously if river water levels fall, ensuring double the volume of water remains in the Okhchuchay River compared to the ecological flow.

The Sarigishlag HEPS features a 110 kV outdoor switchgear that transmits the green energy generated by the 'Shayifli' HEPS, part of the same hydroelectric cycle. Both facilities incorporate modern digital equipment and an automated control system, enhancing efficiency and energy output. The Sarigishlag HEPS is expected to produce up to 33 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, saving 7.4 million cubic meters of gas and preventing 13,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

The Zangilan cycle, with a total capacity of 42 megawatts, is the largest cascade of power stations established in Azerbaijan’s recently liberated territories. These stations, designed by local experts, operate at over 70 percent of their installed capacity. The generated energy not only meets the internal needs of the region but also contributes to the national grid, supporting Azerbaijan's energy independence and environmental goals.