Project Information
Caucasus Science and Engineering (CSE) was commissioned by Mestiachala Energy LLC to design and implement a multi-phase natural hazard monitoring, early warning and alarm system for the Mestiachala Hydropower Plant in Svaneti, Georgia. This initiative addresses persistent risks of landslides, debris flows, rockfall, and glacier retreat across the Chalaati, Lekhziri, and Murkvami catchments. During Phase 0–1 (2023), CSE conducted a comprehensive update of the 2020 hazard assessment, combining field surveys, UAV mapping, and satellite analysis. The results confirmed that geohazards remain highly active, particularly following the catastrophic 2019 event, while glacier retreat of 10–20 meters annually continues to destabilize slopes. Based on these findings, CSE outlined a layered monitoring strategy, integrating the AFRY Hydro DSS platform, UAV-based remote inspections, and ground-based stations equipped with geophones and radar discharge sensors. In Phase 2–3 (2024), the design moved into practical implementation. Site assessments identified optimal locations for LoRa® gateways, discharge monitoring stations, and vibration sensors across the valleys. The system combines solar- and fuel cell-powered gateways with automated sirens and data transmission to a central server. Real-time monitoring now enables the detection of floods, debris flows, slope instabilities, and avalanche activity, providing several minutes of lead time for protective measures and staff evacuation This project highlights CSE’s expertise in integrating advanced geotechnical monitoring with robust early warning systems. By safeguarding critical hydropower infrastructure and personnel, it contributes to the long-term resilience of Georgia’s renewable energy sector.
