The contract for the first phase of the project for the construction of the Skavica hydropower plant was signed on Monday in Tirana. The plant is considered a work of special importance for the Albanian power sector.

The agreement was signed between the head of the Albanian Electricity Corporation (KESH), Ergys Verdho and the representative of the U.S. engineering and construction company Bechtel.

Also present at a special ceremony, the Minister of Infrastructure and Energy, Belinda Balluku said that the first phase of the project includes the preparatory work for conducting environmental, technical and social studies, to then move on to the second phase which is the construction of the Skavica HPP.

"This is the next step towards the realization of a long-term dream,” Balluku said, adding that the drafting of the studies will be completed within 18 months.

Furthermore, Minister Balluku said that Skavica HPP will play the role of a regulator for existing HPPs by increasing by 20% the domestic production of electricity, but on the other hand will optimize and increase the production capacity of the Drin cascade.

"The construction of the Skavica HPP, a project of national interest, will enable Albania to establish full independence from energy imports and will position our country as an energy center for the region," she added.

The construction of the Skavica HPP is a major project with an impact not only on the power system, but also on the national economy of the country. "This project will ensure the optimization of the Drini Cascade, the elimination of floods in the area of Shkodra and Lezha, as well as the increase of safety and efficiency in water works in the existing HPPs of the cascade,” Balluku declared. She also focused on the social impact that the construction of the HPP will create. "From the beginning we have been clear in terms of the social impact that this project will have in the area, but Bechtel also because of the experience in managing large infrastructure projects that undoubtedly create social impact, is a name that creates security and I am confident that everything will be resolved for the benefit of the residents of the area,” Balluku said.

On the other hand, regional president for Europe, Africa and the Middle East in the company Bechtel, Justin Siberell said that “we are very pleased to be working with the government of Albania in this historic and important project.”

"The Skavica HPP is of great importance to Albania, including the 210 megawatts of added clean renewable energy and the control of seasonal floods," he said.

According to Siberell, the agreement will enable the start of early work to support the project, which includes detailed project in-depth studies geotechnical study investigation, preliminary construction routes and social and environmental impact in accordance with international standards. "We cannot wait to work in partnership with KESH to bring a good product. We apply the highest standards of safety at work," he said.