New hydropower plants in Romania, 120 MW. Environmental approval given for Cerna–Motru–Tismana

The Ministry of Environment has decided to issue the environmental agreement for the Cerna–Motru–Tismana hydropower project (Stage II), according to a press release from the institution.

“This decision is an example of how the development of energy infrastructure and environmental protection can go together when there is professionalism, institutional cooperation and strict compliance with the rules. We are not talking about compromises, but about correct technical solutions, built on serious impact assessments and alternatives with minimal effect on the environment. We support projects that are done legally, transparently and responsibly, with respect for nature and communities. When things are in order, they move forward. It is important to note that today’s CAT decision was taken with the agreement of all representatives of the ministries and institutions involved in the analysis”, stated Diana Buzoianu, Minister of Environment, Water and Forests.

“The decision was made by the Technical Analysis Commission of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Food Safety following the full completion of the environmental impact assessment procedure, carried out in accordance with national legislation and European Union norms, based on three specialized studies:

The impact assessment study on water bodies;
The appropriate assessment study;
The environmental impact report, documentation that substantiated the selection of a project alternative with minimal environmental impact.

The project:

has as its main objective the safety of the Vâja dam at the intermediate elevation of 572 mdM, the elevation at which the dam is already built
ensures the safe operation of the existing infrastructure
leads to an increase in the hydroelectric power production capacity by optimizing the operation of the Clocotiș HPP
protects downstream localities in the event of floods

At the same time, the selected project alternative eliminates lateral and longitudinal fragmentations on the Tismana River, ensuring the connectivity of the watercourse and protecting functioning of aquatic ecosystems.

Measures to prevent, reduce and monitor the impact on the environment are integrated both for the period of execution of the works and for the operating phase of the development”, the Ministry of Environment also announced.

According to the latest data from Hidroelectrica, the Cerna-Motru – Tismana hydro-technical and energy complex, stage II, has an installed project capacity of 119 MW. The hydro-energy development is 90% complete.