An energy of Crimean wind
Crimean peninsula ??“ is the traditional ???white spot??? in country??™s energy balance. Only 10% of its total needs in energy is satisfied thanks to own generating supplies.? However, the Portuguese company, those name is Martifer Group, has decided to transform an energy potential of the region into a real project. The vice-president of Martifer Group, George Martins says: ???We see that capacity of Ukrainian market allows running various projects, however we lay special emphasis on wind-power engineering.??? To be more precise, the company showed readiness to construct two wind-driver power stations in Crimea. The total capacity of planned station is estimated in 300 megawatt. Another company ???Novo-Eco??? proposed to modernize existing transmission lines, build new ones and improve switch-yards. So, the final sum of investments makes up around 500 million euros. Such well-known financial structures as EBRR and Nordic Investment Bank had also expressed their willingness to take part in the project. The project manager, Mats Lundin has informed that they have already obtained the letter of approval from the Ministry. The building of power stations will start at the beginning of the year 2008. All works must be finished in 2 years. The first two platforms will be located in Chernomorskiy and Lenskiy regions of the peninsula. 150 wind turbines (2 megawatt each) will be established on them. To earn money from wind power stations are able mainly foreign companies as they posses the most essential thing - experience. Officials of ???Novo-Eco??? do not exclude attracting of Ukrainian equipment producers and building companies. The reason of power station building wasn??™t a random choice. 90-93% of consumed electrical energy must be imported from the continent. In fact, 128,7 megawatt is produced. However, the deficit in peak periods is 200-400 megawatt.
During Soviet times the problem could be solved by nuclear power plant building.? However, in practice the idea is absolutely useless. A resort with ???peaceful atom??? nearby ??“is not a forward-looking object for tourism. Odessa is on a waiting list. Unfortunately our region also experience scarcity of energy. And it also has wind characteristics, which are exceptionally favorable for wind-driver power stations construction. We hope that Crimean experiment will be successful and serve as testimonial for foreign and local companies to start number of similar projects in Odessa region.