Salini Impregilo has signed a framework agreement worth $3.9 billion to build a 3600MW hydroelectric project in Tajikistan, with the first lot of work involving construction of the Rogun dam - described as the world's tallest dam.
The agreement between Salini Impregilo and state-run OJSC "Rogun Hydropower Project" concerns the exploitation of the huge hydroelectric potential of Pamir, one of Central Asia's main mountain ranges.
It includes four lots, with the first - worth $1.95 billion - involving construction of the 335m high rockfill dam with a clay core on the Vakhsh River.
In a statement, Salini said the three remaining lots are expected to be assigned to the Group by 30 September 2016.
Once completed, the plant will have six turbines of 600MW. It will double energy production in Tajikistan and is expected to make the country a point of reference for the energy sector in the region. Pakistan and Afghanistan have already declared their intention to buy some of the energy to be produced by Rogun, with more neighbouring countries expected to do the same.
