500 kV “Marneuli–Ayrum” transmission line

In 2006, a session of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between Armenia and Georgia was held, during which a decision was made to construct a new 400 kV transmission line connecting the power systems of Georgia and Armenia, extending from the Ksani-500 substation to the Razdan Thermal Power Plant. The proposed scheme included the utilization of the existing 75 km section of the 500 kV “Mukhrani” transmission line, extending from the Ksani-500 substation to Tower No. 42 of the “Mukhrani” transmission line.

The Marneuli-500 substation will be connected to the 500 kV Ayrum substation through the 500 kV “Marneuli–Ayrum” transmission line. The Ayrum substation is designed as a 500/400 kV substation with a 700 MW high-voltage direct current (HVDC) back-to-back converter station. From Ayrum, it will be possible to connect to the Razdan Thermal Power Plant, with further extension towards Iran through double-circuit 400 kV transmission lines. The implementation of this project will significantly increase the capacity for electricity exchange and power flow between Russia, Georgia, Armenia, and Iran.

The transmission line will enable the export of surplus electricity generated in Georgia to neighboring countries during the summer period. During the winter period, it will contribute significantly to covering energy system deficits, thereby substantially improving the reliability of Georgia’s electricity supply and enhancing the operational stability of the national transmission network.