Karabakh looking to switch to energy saving mode

PanARMENIAN.Net - Nagorno Karabakh has plunged into an energy crisis, and the matter of switching to energy saving mode was discussed at a meeting of the operational headquarters on Friday, January 13.

Chaired by State Minister Ruben Vardanyan, the meeting focused on issues related to the minimum energy needs of the population and the uninterrupted operation of vital facilities amid the energy crisis.

Since January 9, Azerbaijan has cut off the supply of electricity from Armenia to Artsakh, refusing access to Armenian specialists for facilities under Baku’s control. Rolling blackouts have been introduced in the country since January 10.

Vardanyan noted that a rather complicated situation has developed with regard to energy supply, and steps should be taken to ensure that the minimum energy needs of the population are met for as long as possible.

The State Minister instructed industry leaders to submit proposals for the transition to energy saving mode and for the maximum reduction in electricity consumption.

During the meeting, they discussed the problems of citizens who lost their jobs due to the difficult economic situation and the suspension of enterprises, and discussed issues related to their employment.

Since December 12, the sole road connecting Nagorno Karabakh to Armenia - the Lachin Corridor - has been blocked by self-described Azerbaijani environmentalists. Karabakh residents have reported food and fuel shortages, while hospital patients don't have access to essential medicines, with only a handful allowed transfer to facilities in Armenia proper.