Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) of Galnaftogaz Wind Farm
Client:
The Ukrainian fuel retail leader invested in renewable energy, specifically the construction of a wind farm with a maximum capacity of approximately 150 MW. The project included about 50 wind turbines, power lines to upgrade transformer substations, and a new substation in Novovolynsk, Volyn region, western Ukraine. The project required a full Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) in accordance with IFC, EBRD, and international standards to evaluate project impacts and develop mitigation plans.
The ESIA aimed to:
Define the project’s area of influence according to IFC and EBRD definitions;
Establish baseline environmental and social (E&S) conditions within the area of influence;
Analyze all feasible project alternatives;
Assess social and environmental risks and impacts (direct, indirect, cumulative, including effects on vulnerable groups) arising from construction, operation, and decommissioning, including associated facilities;
Identify appropriate, feasible, and practical mitigation measures and develop management and monitoring programs based on a hierarchy of mitigation measures (avoid/minimize/mitigate/compensate);
Conduct consultations throughout the assessment process with affected individuals, the public, and other key stakeholders regarding potential project benefits and negative E&S impacts.
AVGroup conducted a comprehensive review of existing environmental and social information and assessed the regulatory and policy context. The project included desktop research, preliminary data analysis, delineation of the project’s area of influence, and on-site baseline environmental and social studies. Field visits and stakeholder consultations were conducted to validate information, assess impacts, and inform stakeholders. The resulting ESIA report complies with national and international standards, documenting public consultations, grievance mechanisms, and the preparation of a Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP).
