Draft: Environmental and Social Impact...

2017

Draft: Environmental and Social Impact Assessment

P152343: MONGOLIA - SECOND ENERGY SECTOR

PROJECT COMPONENT 2 (SOLAR)

JANUARY, 2017

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2

CONSTRUCTION 2 OPERATIONS IMPACTS 3

1. INTRODUCTION 5

2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 5

3. DESCRIPTION OF THE POTENTIAL SITES 6

3.1 SITE A (MAYANGAD SOUM CENTRE HOVD AIMAG) 6 3.2 SITE B (UMOGOVI SOUM, UVS AIMAG) 9 3.3 SITE C (10KM NORTH FROM SITE A, MAYANGAD SOUM HOVD AIMAG) 13

4. DESCRIPTION OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS 15

4.1 CONSTRUCTION IMPACTS 15 4.2 OPERATIONS IMPACTS 16

5. GREIVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM 16

6. CONSULTATIONS 18

ANNEX A: IMPACT EVALUATION MATRIX 19

ANNEX B: SELECTED SITE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT & MITIGATION PLAN 21

ANNEX C: SUMMARY OF CONSULTATIONS 33

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Executive Summary The Mongolian Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Energy confirmed to the World Bank that a solar photovoltaic component was to be included in the Second Energy Sector Project (ESP 2). One solar plant was confirmed to be developed under this project with an estimated capacity of 10 Megawatts (MW) and estimated land requirements between 25 to 37.5 hectares. Three possible sites have been identified for this solar photovoltaic plant. Two locations had previously been identified as part of the Scaling Up Renewable Energy Program (SREP) and a third potential location has more recently been identified. The purpose of this Environmental & Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) is to evaluate the environmental and social aspects of these three sites in order to assist in selecting the site that is most acceptable with regard to these safeguard aspects. The three sites identified are located in Hovd Aimag (Site A), Uvs Aimag (Site B) and Hovd Aimag (Site C). Due diligence and safeguard screening for Site A and Site B were conducted by an international safeguard consultant in September-October 2016 and in November 2016 for Site C. This screening effort included site location considerations (proximity to population centers, forests, natural habitats and migratory routes, physical cultural resources, existing infrastructure, water resources, and nomadic migration patterns). Social assessment data was also collected during these times, with assistance from the Mongolian Marketing Consulting Group (MMCG) a local agency. The results of the screening suggest that the proposed solar photovoltaic plant at all three sites present some potential minor to modest environmental and safeguard risks and minor social safeguard risks and impacts. An Impact Evaluation Matrix was completed using the screening results (See Annex A) and it was concluded that Site A was the most advantageous from an environmental and social safeguard perspective. For the selected site, an Environmental Management and Mitigation Plan (See Annex B) was prepared to guide the project developer in identifying, monitoring and managing environmental and social issues associated with both the construction and operation of the solar photovoltaic facility. Potential impacts considered in the EMP include: Construction Land Use At site C, there is a potential for economic displacement of herder households (1-5 households), who may use the land for grazing livestock for a few months each year. Given there is an abundance of alternative land available, impacts are minor. Sites A and B are on state land, with no persons using or living on the land. Social Social impacts will primarily be positive, associated with short term employment and local supply opportunities. Short term (temporary) negative impacts, associated with construction will occur such as noise/dust generation (as discussed below) and temporary in-migration of workers (less than 200 persons for 6 months) which will be managed through the EMP. Air quality

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Engine exhausts and fugitive dust emissions may be generated from stored construction materials, or movement of vehicles and equipment Noise Can be disruptive to behavioral patterns of local inhabitants and wildlife. Alteration of runoff patterns Land clearing and modification to land surface contours can alter runoff patterns and cause flooding

Topsoil removal Land preparation may involve removal/storage of topsoil

Vegetative waste production Land preparation may involve clearance and removal of existing vegetation

Construction Related Solid Wastes Non-hazardous: wastes from packaging, inert construction materials and possibly domestic wastes from worker camps Hazardous wastes: used oils, lubricants, excess paints and or coating materials, adhesives Wastewaters Wastewaters generated from cleaning equipment or possibly domestic wastewaters from sanitary facilities and worker camps

Cultural resources During excavation activities, historical artifacts of cultural, religious or historical significance may be accidently uncovered

Worker safety Construction activities will expose workers to hazardous conditions and materials that may affect their safety and health.

Operations Impacts Social No new connections are anticipated as part of the scope of the investment, nor is this anticipated to be induced as a result of the investment. Changes in consumer electricity prices, and potential improvements to reliability are not anticipated given the current use of Russian electricity and given consumers are already connected (in urban centres). Approximately 10-30 workers will be required during operations who will need to be trained and gain capacity for operating a solar photovoltaic plant. Given capacity building and upskilling will be required for all employed, this also represents an opportunity for local skilled workers and women to gain skill building and employment opportunities as a result of the solar plant development.

Visual disruption Reflection of sunlight off solar modules can affect drivers’ visions and disrupt migratory bird flight patterns.

Groundwater availability Significant drawdown of groundwaters for panel washing could lower the groundwater table, if conventional panels are utilized. However, if the panel design elects dry, self-cleaning systems,

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groundwater use would be minimal (to meet worker hygiene requirements). This aspect will be factored into the final design of the solar panel, including testing for water availability in the project area.

Panel washing wastewaters Wastewaters from panel washing may contain pollutants and contaminate receiving waters, if conventional panels are utilized.

Hazardous wastes Oil leaks from circuit breakers, inverters, and transformers during maintenance can contaminate soils

Ecology Selected site for both the solar photovoltaic panels and the route of the transmission line may interfere with routes of migratory birds and behavioral patterns of ground nesting birds, migration patterns of land based wildlife or grazing areas for domesticated livestock. Potentially, additional solar plants may be included in the project sometime after World Bank Board approval. For this possibility, a separate Environment and Social Management Framework (ESMF) document has been prepared to guide the Borrower in meeting Mongolian and World Bank safeguard requirements for any potential site under consideration.

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1. Introduction The Mongolian Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Energy confirmed to the World Bank that a solar photovoltaic component was to be included in the Second Energy Sector Project (ESP 2). One solar plant was confirmed to be developed under this project with an estimated capacity of 10 Megawatts (MW) and estimated land requirements between 25 to 37.5 hectares. Three possible sites have been identified for this solar photovoltaic plant. Two locations had previously been identified as part of the Scaling Up Renewable Energy Program (SREP) and a third potential location has more recently been identified. A map indicating the location of the three sites is presented below.

The purpose of this Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) is to evaluate the environmental and social aspects of these three sites in order to assist in selecting the site that is most acceptable with regard to these safeguard aspects.

2. Project Description The solar photovoltaic plant will convert radiant energy from the sun into usable electricity. The plant will consist of a solar array and the balance of system components. The plant is categorized as a grid connected ground-mounted system and will consist of fixed tilted solar panels made of crystalline silicon. The proposed project will be designed with an estimated capacity of 10 megawatts (MW) which would require between 30,000 and 70,000 solar panels occupying between 25 to 37.5 hectares of land. Solar cells will be encapsulated in a solar module to protect them from the weather. The module consists of a tempered glass cover, a rear back sheet made of a weathering and fire-resistant material and an aluminum frame. Cells are electrically connected and mounted on an elevated support structure to form a solar module. A string of modules is termed a “solar panel” and one or more such panels linked together is called a solar array. A module is about a square meter and produces about 0.75 kilowatt-hour (kWh)/day of electricity. Anti-reflective coatings will be used on the solar PV modules to

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absorb light transmittance and therefore decrease glare and light reflectance which could create a safety hazard to drivers and possibly affect any bird flight patterns. During operation, with a conventional panel design, it is estimated that between 410,000 and 615,000 liters of water would be required every 6 months for cleaning the photovoltaic panel surfaces. However, if the panel design elects dry, self-cleaning systems, groundwater use would be minimal (to meet worker hygiene requirements). Each site is not extremely dusty. Panels will be set at steep angle (approximately 45 degrees). Therefore, a certain level of cleansing effect of rains can be expected. With a conventional panel design, the frequency of cleaning would be revised depending on the actual trend of electricity output and the result of physical inspection. Used wash waters would be discharged without treatment because it is anticipated that these waters would only contain suspended solids from the removal of dust deposits on the panels and not present any significant management issues. However, wastewaters produced after the first two washing operations would be analyzed for a range of possible pollutants and land would be set aside at the project site for wastewater treatment should the wastewater quality analysis indicate treatment is needed. Any of the chosen sites will need to connect to the nearest substation. Power output from the plant will be fed into the existing grid through a transmission line of 0.5km in length and depending on environmental considerations of migratory wildlife routes, the transmission line is anticipated to be buried and connected to the nearest substation. However, feeding electricity into the grid will require transformation of the DC generated power into AC with an inverter. The inverter will be synchronized to the grid frequency.

3. Description of the Potential sites A description of each of the three sites is provided below.

3.1 SITE A (MAYANGAD SOUM CENTRE HOVD AIMAG)

A recent photograph of Site A is presented below.

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Land Use (Current)

The proposed site is 1 kilometer from Myanagad soum center, next to an existing substation. The existing Mayangad Substation (2 x 110/ 35/ 6kV) includes a 110 kV transmission line from the Durgun hydro power plant in Hovd Aimag, a 110 kV transmission line in with electricity supply from Russia (through Umnugovi Substation), a 110 kV transmission line out supplying energy to some soums of Govi-Altai Aimag, as well as a 35 kV transmission line out to Hovd city, Erdeneburen soum and Duut soum of Hovd Aimag. The Mayangad Soum Governor’s office confirmed that Site A (including any associated transmission line) is State land. The entire area surrounding the substation can be made available for the solar plant facility. If selected, a license between 15-60 years would be issued. The governor’s office and observations by the international safeguard consultant confirmed that the land is not used formally or informally for agriculture (i.e. nomadic herding), or any industrial activities. There is no one living at or near the proposed project site formally or informally. No winter structures are located at or near the proposed project site.

Land Use (Future)

The Mayangad Soum Governor’s office has the authority to issue a license of between 15 to 60 years once the exact size/dimensions and location is confirmed. Furthermore, the Soum Governor has expressed support for the project. There are no future land use plans at site A, nor is there any land use planning in the soum center.

Social

The population of Myangad soum is 3,587 people in Hovd province (80, 366 people), from which 2,436 is the population of 15 years and over as of 2015. Myangad soum has 5 baghs (administrative units) and the 5th bagh (Bayankhoshuu) is in the soum center. The bagh is divided into main 3 statuses of herders, farmers and soum center settlement. As of 2015 838 people and approximately 210 households live in Bayankhoshuu bagh. There is a high school, primary school and kindergarten at the Soum centre. The soum working population is actively engaged during the summer months by three brick making factories; with approximately 30% of those employed being female. High salaries are available during these months from 600,000 to 2MIL MNT. Presently no hotel or visitor accommodation is available in the soum centre. Beyond the brick making factories, households are engaged in livestock raising activities. All households and organisations are grid-connected.

Forests

The proposed site is not forested. Har Us Lake national park (includes a Ramsar site) is 12.5 km to the south and includes Important Bird Areas. The proposed site is not forested, but approval from the Ministry of Environment, Green Development and Tourism (MEGDT), Director of Forest Policy and Coordination would be required.

Physical Cultural Resources

According to Soum Environment and Land officers, no known physical cultural resources are present. The closest physical cultural resource officially recognized is Sangiin kherem located approximately 45km from the project site. Sangiin Kherem is the Mongolian name for the remains of a Machu period

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fort in northern Hovd. The fort was built in the 18th century, and later became the seat of the Manchu amban and his office. The fort has a quadratic layout, the walls are made of clay.

Water Resources Supply and Management

Local soum government stakeholders asserted that groundwater resources at site A were abundant. Wells were observed adjacent to the site. However, no specific data on water availability was provided. A well observed near the Mayangad substation has not been officially registered with the state authorities and therefore the capacity is not known. The governor of Mayangad soum indicated that Mayangad has sufficient water resources. According to the environmental officer of the governor’s office, there is further potential for utilizing groundwater resources. Currently, water is used for agriculture, drinking, cooking. Water resources requirements for the plant of about 410 m3/year would be needed according to the IFC Developers guide (41 m3/year/MW).

The location is generally windy in the spring and autumn, which would require increased panel washing during these periods. As part of the design effort, the World Bank would exercise a due diligence effort to secure reliable well yield data for groundwaters at the proposed project site to confirm the views of the Mayangad governors’ office. Should the due diligence efforts be unsuccessful, the World Bank would arrange field studies to secure this information before any project design would proceed. Use of chemical additives for panel cleaning will be prohibited. Therefore, the only pollutant anticipated, if water cleaning is used, will be suspended solids in the wastewaters from washing dust off the solar panels. Wastewaters produced after the first two washing operations will be analyzed for a range of possible pollutants and treatment facilities would be installed should the wastewater quality analysis indicate treatment is needed.

Ecology

Due diligence confirmed that the site (including the proposed transmission line route) is not within any officially protected area and will not result in the destruction of forests. However, the selected site is approximately 12.5 km from a Ramsar site and there are important water bird areas in the general location including the Khar Us lake which transects the Hovd river. Local residents indicated that birds are known to frequent the area around the Hovd river and Khar Us Lake is an important breeding site for the globally threatened White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala.

Discussions with WWF stakeholders indicated that there was less likelihood of interactions with wildlife given the proximity of the location to a local road. Discussions with stakeholders from the Mongolian Wildlife Science and Conservation Centre suggested that few birds use the arid location except possibly for scrub coverage. The solar project could disturb nest locations in low lying scrub for the Mongolian Ground Jay (Red List Category of “Least Concern” according to BirdLife International)1.

1 According to BirdLife International the Mongolian Ground Jay is categorized as “Least Concern”. These species have a wide

range of habitation: approximately 2, 310,000 square kilometers covering Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and China. The project would occupy approximately 40 ha or 40,000 square meters as an upper bound. The project would occupy a miniscule portion of this species range.

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The Mongolian Wildlife Science and Conservation Centre indicated that the PV panels were unlikely to result in bird collisions since the species that frequent the are either song birds which migrate to the river west of the site or raptors which tend to be high flying. The transmission lines could present a bird collision risk, but mitigation measures are well known, very effective and inexpensive (diverters), or if necessary and the line is short enough (in the range of 0.5 km) burying it would be economically feasible. There may be issues of the solar photovoltaic plant and associated transmission line affecting migratory routes for a variety of wildlife. The Borrower will be required to receive clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Green Development and Tourism (MEGDT), Department of Environment and Natural Resources Management who will ensure that the project does not involve significant conversion of critical natural habitats and/or for non-critical habitats, acceptable mitigation measures are in place in the unlikely event that the solar plant/transmission line is likely to affect these non-critical natural habitats. Recent solar farm experience in California, USA had migratory birds colliding with horizontally mounted panels because, it was believed, the birds mistakenly viewed the panels as a lake. However, because of Mongolia’s geographic location relative to the sun’s orientation, solar panels will be tilted to for maximum absorption of solar radiation and birds will not see the solar array as any water body.

Proximity to Existing Infrastructure

The nearest road is 0.5km from Site A, the nearest railway is in Erdernet city 895 km east of the site. Near the project site is the Soum old municipal dump. A new properly managed municipal disposal facility nearby has been developed. The scale of both disposal operations is small (approximately 1 ha). Observations by the international safeguard consultants, confirmed by local authorities, indicated that only municipal waste was deposited at both sites. Neither birds nor animals were observed. The Soum Governor confirmed that waste at the old dump site can be transferred to the new site if necessary. There is no wastewater treatment in the soum centre. Mostly wastewater (from bathing, washing, cooking) is discharged into an outdoor household pit or into an outhouse drop-toilet facility not connected to septic facilities. South of the soum, a pit for wastewater is available, but generally this is not used by local people.

3.2 SITE B (UMOGOVI SOUM, UVS AIMAG)

A recent photograph of Site B is presented below.

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Land Use (Current)

Site B is located next to the Umnugovi soum centre substation (110/35/10kV) which includes a 110 kilovolt (kV) transmission line from Russia (to the north Ulaangom city of Uvs aimag); a 35 kV transmission line out to Ulgi soum; a 10 kV transmission line to Umnugovi Soum, as well as a 110 KW transmission line out to Hovd/Bayan Ulgi Aimags (to the south). The substation is 2 kilometres from the Umnogovi soum centre. The Umnugovi Soum Governor confirmed that the potential project site (approximately 15+hectares) is State Land as well as the surrounding area which is also available, if needed for the project. A license for land use can be made for 15-30 years. The governor’s office and observations by the international safeguard consultant confirmed that the land is not used formally or informally for agriculture (i.e. nomadic herding), or any industrial activities. There is no one living at or near the proposed project site formally or informally. No winter structures are located at or near the proposed project site as well.

Land Use (Future)

The land at site B is not currently used. 10 hectares of land on the west side of the Umnugovi substation was leased to the WES (Western Energy System) for 30 years renewable usage purpose on Sept. 27, 2016. A private company has recently received a license for 15 years (5 hectares) on the southeastern side of the Umnugovi substation for renewable energy activities. According to the Umnugovi Soum Governor, the private company had a plan to build a solar power plant on the other side of the site B. However it has not taken any specific action since the license was issued. Other than the above, there is no future plans for site B.

Social

The population of Umnugobi soum of Uvs province (80,763 persons) is 4,459 people, from which 2,873 are 15 years and over in 2015. Umnugobi soum has 5 baghs (administrative units) and the 5th bagh (Namir) is in the soum center. As of 2015 1,335 people live in this bagh. The population of Turgen soum

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of Uvs province is 2,132 people, from which 1,417 is the population of 15 and above year old and number of households is 575. The soum centre experiences seasonal variation with approximately 2,000 residents. The soum centre has three schools: 2 elementary (year 5 and under) one is private the other state run with 250 students between them; 1 school with grades 5-12 with approximately 1000 students. A total of approximately 1250 students attend school in the soum centre. In addition, there is 1 kindergarten with approximately 250 students. There are three hotels in the soum centre. Three hotels and a number of café/restaurants service the soum centre. The main economic sector of Umnugobi of Uvs province is the livestock breeding and arable farming. There are more than 65 services and public organizations. 80.0% of the soum production is provided from agriculture and 13.0% from mining sectors. Due to increase of the population density in the soum the actual problems in Umnugobi soum are i) workplace deficiency, ii) air pollution is increasing because there is no centralized heating system, iii) poor accessibility of the dormitory, and iv) regular electricity cut-off. As for the public maintenance services in the soum the business units, organizations decide their heatings by separate low pressure boilers. The public organizations, including the governor’s office, a health center, a kindergarten, a cultural center and high schools also decide their heating by 8 steam boilers. Although every household in the soum is connected to the electricity, the electricity voltage is very weak to the suburban regions and there is electricity regularility cuts out. There is a dump site of the soum center to the north-west of the land planned for the Solar electric substation. The dump site consists mainly of household waste as well the wood, coal, ash from the soum residents firing and also construction waste. The soum center has 15 Abyssinian wells to provide drinking water and most households, business units, organizations take water from water kiosk. But the water hardness is high in the soum. There is no treatment facilities in the soum center and the households, business units, organizations have separate pits and latrine pits for removing waste water.

Forests

Due diligence confirmed that the site (including the proposed transmission line route) is not within any officially protected area and will not result in the destruction of forests. The proposed site is not forested, but approval from the Ministry of Environment, Green Development and Tourism (MEGDT), Director of Forest Policy and Coordination would be required


According to Soum Environment and Land officers, no known physical cultural resources are present. According to the Umnugovi Soum Governor, the closest physical cultural resource officially recognized is Tsagaan bulan (rock paintings) located approximately 20km from the project site. However, Umngovi government officials recommended undertaking a preliminary prospecting survey by a professional archaeological organization as the general Soum area is known for archaeological resources.


Water resources are more restricted than at the Mayangad site. Local soum government stakeholders confirmed that groundwater resources were restricted. Wells were observed adjacent to the site.

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Surface water resources consist of a river approximately 7-10 km from the proposed site and the Khar Us Lake about 2 km from the proposed site. A groundwater well owned by Western Energy System is available at the Umnugovi substation. However, this well has not been officially registered and its’ capacity is not available. Use of chemical additives for panel cleaning will be prohibited. Therefore, the only pollutant anticipated, if water cleaning is used, will be suspended solids in the wastewaters from washing dust off the solar panels.

Ecology

Due diligence confirmed that the site (including the proposed transmission line route) are not within any protected area and will not result in the destruction of forests. However, the site is on the outskirts of officially recognized important bird areas, known for an abundance of water bird species. Of particular note is Khar Us Lake which is a Ramsar site. The lake hosts a number of water bird species that either spend the summer at the lake or pass through as part of their migratory pattern. Several globally threatened and near threatened species (White-headed Duck, Falcated Duck, Swan Goose, Dalmation Pelican, and Palla’s Fish-eagle). In addition, nationally threatened species that are known to inhabit the area include: Whooper Swan, and Mongolian Ground Jay (see discussion for Site A).

To the east of the Umnugovi substation (~64 km) is the Hyargas National Park. The Mongolian Wildlife Science and Conservation Center could not confirm if any birds use the immediate area of the proposed project site, however, there are shore birds using the north section of Khar Us Lake that tend to be low flying and may present a collision risk, particularly with an overhead transmission line. Discussion with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) included their recommendation that a biodiversity study be conducted to determine the presence in the mountain area south of Khar Us Lake of ungulates (wild sheep, ibex etc.) and snow leopards which may migrate to other mountainous areas. If these species are present, there may be the need to develop green corridors to ensure the project would not influence their migratory patterns. There may be issues of the solar photovoltaic plant and associated transmission line affecting migratory routes for a variety of wildlife. Therefore, the Borrower will be required to receive clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Green Development and Tourism (MEGDT), Department of Environment and Natural Resources Management who will ensure that the project does not involve significant conversion of critical natural habitats or if non-critical habitats are involved, acceptable mitigation measures are in place if the solar plant is likely to affect these non-critical natural habitats.


Site B is located next to the Umnugovi soum centre substation (110/35/10kV) which includes a 110 kilovolt (kV) transmission line from Russia (to the north Ulaangom city of Uvs aimag); a 35 kV transmission line out to Ulgi soum; a 10 kV transmission line to Umnugovi Soum, as well as a 110 KW transmission line out to Hovd/Bayan Ulgi Aimags (to the south). The substation is 2 kilometres from the Umnogovi soum centre. The nearest road is 2km from Site B, the nearest railway is in Edenet city 900 km east of the site.

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There is no wastewater treatment in the soum centre. Mostly wastewater (from bathing, washing, cooking) is discharged into an outdoor household pit or into a household outhouse drop-toilet facility, not connected to any septic facilities.

3.3 SITE C (10km north from SITE A, MAYANGAD SOUM HOVD AIMAG)

A recent photograph of Site C is presented below.

Land Use (Current)

The proposed site is 10km north from Site A where the existing Mayangad Substation (2 x 110/ 35/ 6kV) is located. The Mayangad Soum Governor’s office confirmed that Site C (including any associated transmission line) is State land. The entire area can be made available for the solar plant facility. A license between 15-60 years can be subsequently issued. The governor’s office and observations by the international safeguard consultant confirmed that the land is not used formally. According to the deputy governor of Hovd aimag, there is a possibility that the land is informally used for agricultural (i.e. nomadic herding) activities. However, no specific data on the number of nomadic people in the area was provided. In the site visit in November 2016, no activities were observed in or around the site. No winter structures are located on the land.

Land Use (Future)

Mayangad Soum does not have any future plans for land use at or surrounding the Site C.

Social

The nearest community is 10 km north from site C, the Mayangad Soum centre. The socio-economic profile for this community is described previously in Section 3.1. No services or facilities are available at site C.

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Forests

The proposed site is not forested. Har Us Lake national park (the Ramsar site) is 22.5 km to the south and includes Important Bird Areas.

If this site is selected, approval from the Ministry of Environment, Green Development and Tourism (MEGDT), Director of Forest Policy and Coordination would be required


According to Soum Environment and Land officers, no known physical cultural resources are present at site C. The closest physical cultural resource officially recognized is Sangiin kherem located approximately 55km from the project site. Sangiin Kherem is the Mongolian name for the remains of a Machu period fort in northern Hovd. The fort was built in the 18th century, and later became the seat of the Manchu amban and his office. The fort has a quadratic layout, the walls are made of clay.


Although no wells were observed adjacent to the site C, the Mayangad soum governor asserted that groundwater resources were abundant. However, no specific data on water availability was provided (see discussion under Site A regarding World Bank due diligence effort to secure reliable data confirming the views of the governors’ office). The location is generally windy in the spring and autumn, which would require increased panel washing during these periods.

Water resources requirements for the plant of between 410 -615 m3/year would be needed according to the IFC Developers guide (41 m3/year/MW).

Ecology

Due diligence confirmed that the site (including the proposed transmission line route) is not within any officially protected area and will not result in the destruction of forests. However, the selected site is approximately 22.5 km from a Ramsar site and there are important water bird areas in the general location including the Khar Us lake which transects the Hovd river. Local residents indicated that birds are known to frequent the area around the Hovd river and Khar Us Lake is an important breeding site for the globally threatened White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala. Discussions with Khar Us Nuur National Park protected area administration indicated some preference for Site A which could use 0.5km underground cable as opposed to Site C which would use 1-km overhead transmission line and thus present a greater bird collision risk.


The nearest road is 0.5km from the site. The nearest rail is at Erdernet 896 km to the west of the site. A new landfill is 10km from Site C. There is no other infrastructure in proximity. Mayangad soum center (10 km from site) includes schools, kindergartens and government administrative offices. There is no wastewater treatment in Mayangad soum center.

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4. DESCRIPTION OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS

4.1 Construction Impacts

Land Use

At site C, there is a potential for economic displacement of herder households (1-5 households), who may use the land for grazing livestock for a few months each year. Given there is an abundance of alternative land available, impacts are minor, however these impacts would need to be addressed through an Abbreviated Resettlement Plan if site C was selected. Sites A and B are on state land, with no persons using or living on the land.

Social Impacts

In addition to the land use impacts described above, the socio-economic impacts will primarily be positive, associated with short term employment and local supply opportunities. Short term (temporary) negative impacts, associated with construction will occur such as noise/dust generation (as discussed below) and in-migration of workers (less than 200 persons) which will be managed through the EMP. In-migration of non-local workers is anticipated to be of a temporary nature (less than 6 months), whilst this may create some temporary social pressures it is not anticipated to put pressure on local services or infrastructure.

Air quality Engine exhausts will produce emissions of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and possibly dust and sulfur dioxide from poor quality diesel fuels. Fugitive dust emissions may be generated from the movement of men, improperly stored construction materials, or movement of vehicles and equipment

Noise Construction activities can generate noise which can be disruptive to behavioral patterns of local inhabitants and wildlife.

Alteration of runoff patterns Land clearing and modification to land surface contours can alter runoff patterns and introduce localized flooding



Construction Related Solid Wastes Non-hazardous: wastes from packaging, inert construction materials and possibly domestic wastes from worker camps require proper management Hazardous wastes: used oils, lubricants, excess paints and or coating materials, adhesives require special handling and treatment

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Wastewaters Wastewaters generated from cleaning equipment and possibly domestic wastewaters from sanitary facilities and worker camps will require proper management.


Worker safety Construction activities will expose workers to hazardous conditions and materials that may affect their safety and health.

4.2 Operations Impacts

Social No new connections are anticipated as part of the scope of the investment, nor is this anticipated to be induced as a result of the solar plant development. Changes in consumer electricity prices, and potential improvements to reliability are not anticipated given the current use of Russian electricity and given consumers are already grid connected (in urban centres). Opportunities for long term employment opportunities will be available during construction for approximately 10-30 workers, primarily skilled labour, however some unskilled labour may be required for routine activities. Hiring of local and training of local staff will be prioritised, especially women. There will still be a contribution to the local economy by workers spending their income locally, or the engagement of local workers (if skills sets are available), however this will be less than less of a contribution than during construction.

Visual disruption Reflection of sunlight off solar modules can affect drivers’ visions and disrupt migratory bird flight patterns.

Groundwater availability With a conventional panel design, significant drawdown of groundwaters for panel washing could lower the groundwater table affecting water availability to other users.

Panel washing wastewaters With a conventional panel design, wastewaters from panel washing may contain pollutants and contaminate receiving waters.


Ecology Selected site for both the solar photovoltaic panels and the route of the transmission line may interfere with routes of migratory birds and nesting patterns of ground nesting birds, migration patterns of land based wildlife or grazing areas for domesticated livestock.

5. GREIVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM

The Grievance redress mechanism to be applied for the solar component 2 of the Project as described in the ESMF, will also apply to any sites chosen for this investment described herein. Western Energy System (WES) shall coordinate with local authorities (leaders of local communes, leader of villages) for agreed schedules of construction activities at areas near sensitive places (such as hospitals, schools,

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libraries, etc.) or at sensitive times (e.g. holidays, weekends, religious festival days etc.). WES will inform local residents about construction and work schedules, interruption of services, traffic detour routes and provisional bus routes, blasting and demolition, as appropriate.

Notification boards shall be erected at construction locations providing information about the project, as well as contact information about the site managers, environmental staff, health and safety staff, telephone numbers and other contact information so that any affected people can have the channel to voice their concerns and suggestions. The Construction Contractor should not create nuisances and disturbances in or near communities.

Irrespective of cause, the grievance mechanism will address affected people's concerns and complaints promptly, using a transparent process that is responsive, culturally appropriate, and readily accessible to all segments of the affected communities at no cost and without retribution. The complaints process will offer remedies appropriate to the scale of the grievance. The process will be as follows:

Complaints or feedback that can be resolved by contractors or WES staff during normal working operations will be undertaken immediately. The complaint will be recorded, including details of the complaint (what, when, date(s), time(s) of day, gender, other observations), contact details of complainant, remedy/remedies, and date of close out. Complaints can be lodged with WES by phone, post, email, or in person with a Soum representative who will forward the complaint to WES.

Other project-related complaints that cannot be resolved immediately, or by contractors or WES staff, will in the first instance be notified to the Project Management Office (PMO) Safeguard Officers for mediation within a specified short time, preferably not more than fifteen working days. The PMO Safeguards Officers will facilitate mediation hearings with the relevant body related to the grievance and complainant in open forum close to the place of residence of the affected person(s) or affected group. The complainant will be encouraged to be accompanied by supporters during the process.

If mediation is unsuccessful, or if the matter is substantive, at any time affected parties can file written or verbal grievances through the Mongolian Court system, in accordance with Mongolian laws and procedures.

At any time, if the project grievance redress mechanism is considered inadequate for addressing concerns then the World Bank Grievance Redress Service and the World Bank’s Inspection Panel are avenues for appeal. Information on how to submit complaints to the World Bank’s corporate Grievance Redress Service (GRS), can be found at http://www.worldbank.org/GRS. Information on how to submit complaints to the World Bank Inspection Panel, can be found at www.inspectionpanel.org. All complaints received will be recorded and sent through to the Safeguards Officer at the PMO, where they will consolidate complaints into a matrix recording the complainant’s details, date, cause of complaint, steps taken to resolve the issue, outcome and date, any further steps to be taken, date of ultimate resolution and number of days elapsed from first notification to final resolution. The matrix will be updated and included as part of regular reports to the Bank such that the World Bank Task team can monitor these on an ongoing basis. Analysis of causes of complaints will be undertaken to inform improvements in future sub-project design as appropriate.

http://www.worldbank.org/GRMhttp://www.inspectionpanel.org/

18

Information about how to register a complaint will be given in all public communications (including notice boards) and consultations about the Project. Any RPs developed, will extend the above process to ensure affected households can lodge grievances specific to the resettlement process and that

appropriate capacity for resettlement related grievances is available at the local level.

6. CONSULTATIONS As described in Annex C, a range of stakeholders have been consulted throughout the preparation of this EAR. Initially meetings were held with key stakeholders were during the 22 of September through the 18th of November. Meeting participants are included in Annex C. Public consultation on this EAR was conducted on December 2nd 2016 in Mayangad soum, Hovd Aimag. A participant list and summary of the meeting is included in Annex C (Table 2). Local citizens and stakeholders were invited to attend. An overview of the component description, potential positive and negative impacts were discussed along with the legal framework for such activities. Feedback from consultations will be incorporated into the final version of the EAR.

19

ANNEX A: IMPACT EVALUATION MATRIX Impacts Site A Site B Site C

Land Use

Current

Future

Score: 10

Explanation:

Currently not used

No future plan

Score: 5

Explanation:

Currently not used.

Land adjacent to the site has

been leased to a private

company for renewable

energy development. No

definitive plans are

established, but could affect

proposed project

operations.

Score: 5

Explanation:

Potential use by nomadic

herders (1-5 households)

for livestock grazing.

Socio-economic Score: 5

Explanation: minor

disturbances during

construction

Score: 5

Explanation minor

disturbances during

construction

Score: 5

Explanation: minor

disturbances during

construction

Forests Score: 10

Explanation:

No forest

Score: 10

Explanation:

No forest

Score: 10

Explanation:

No forest

Physical/Cultural

Resources

Score: 10

Explanation:

No resources

Score: 10

Explanation:

No resources

Score: 10

Explanation:

No resources

Water Availability

Score: 10

Explanation:

Abundant2

Score: 5

Explanation:

Water resources at this site

are “restricted”

Score: 10

Explanation:

Abundant2

Ecology

Avian

Terrestrial

Aquatic

Score: 10

Explanation:

Underground cable

NGO discussions (WWF and

MWSC) indicated little or no

impact

Score: 5

Explanation:

Underground cable

NGO discussion indicated

uncertainty about avian

impacts an suggested

further study

Score: 5

Explanation:

Overhead transmission

line

National Park

Administration indicated

preference for Site A

Existing

Infrastructure

Score: 5

Explanation:

0.5km from road.

Old municipal dump nearby,

but a new well managed

disposal site constructed

nearby, could accept waste

transferred from old dump, if

necessary.

Score: 5

Explanation:

2km from road

Score: 10

Explanation:

0.5km from road

TOTALS 60 45 55

2 Based upon views expressed by the office of the Mayangad governors’ office. A due diligence effort will be undertaken by the

World Bank to secure well yield data confirming this view. In the absence of such data, the World Bank will undertake a program to collect this data as part of the project design.

20

Legend: No or little impact 10 Modest impact/simple mitigation 5 High Impact/or complex mitigation 1 Site with the highest score is to be selected

21

ANNEX B: SELECTED SITE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT & MITIGATION PLAN

Issue Mitigating Measure

Cost of Mitigation (If Substantial)

Responsibility*

Design

Water resources availability Conduct a due diligence

effort to secure reliable well

yield data, if unavailable

Undertake a program to

collect this data prior to

project design

Minor World Bank

Solar panel technology selection

Based upon results of water resources availability efforts, choose:

Conventional solar panel

design, if sufficient water

resources are present

Dry self-cleaning panel

design, if water resources are

insufficient

To be confirmed Western Energy System

Disturbance to nesting patterns of Mongolian Ground Jay (MGJ) and migratory bird flight patterns

Local bird expert will be engaged prior to design phase to:

survey proposed solar plant

site prior to construction and

as necessary recommend

micro-modifications to site

location to avoid/minimize

nesting areas

identify nesting period of

MGJ and other bird species

present at the project site

and assist in designing

construction schedule to

avoid this period

assure panel design elevation

is sufficient to minimize

disturbance to brush areas

used for nesting by MGJ

work with NGOs (e.g. IUCN,

BirdLife International,

Wildlife Science and

Conservation Centre of

Mongolia) to prepare an

Avian monitoring program

(AMP) for migratory birds and

ground nesters during

construction and operation

phases.

Minor Western Energy System

22

determine migratory bird

patterns to aid in decision

regarding placement of

transmission line above

ground (with avian diverters)

or underground

assure solar panel tilt for

maximum solar efficiency is

adequate to minimize bird

collision risk

Construction

Socio-economic impacts Minor disturbances during construction (noise, dust, traffic). In-migration for 6 months of non-local construction workforce. Positive impacts associated with local employment and supply opportunities.

Notify community of construction schedules. Clearly designate the construction zone with signage and barriers, maintain safe driving limits. Manage air quality and noise impacts in conformance with the procedures described in this EMP. Induction of non-local contractors and workers regarding code of conduct in community. Priority employment of local workers wherever possible, both skilled and unskilled. Non-local workers and contractors prioritisation of local services, such as accommodation and food service providers.

Minor Western Energy System (Social

Safeguards Officer) and Contractor

Air quality Engine exhausts will produce emissions of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and possibly dust and sulfur dioxide from poor quality diesel fuels. Fugitive dust emissions may be generated from the movement of men, improperly stored construction materials, or

Vehicles and equipment must comply with acceptable level of emissions NS 5014: 2009 / diesel engine vehicle- acceptable maximum level and measurement method / and MNS 5013: 2009 / petrol engine vehicle-acceptable maximum level and measurement methods/, standards review; and if all of these requirements are met, the machinery will be permitted to operate on site.

Choosing less windy days for construction works. Spray surfaces with water on dry windy days. Cover storage areas containing

Minor

Minor

Western Energy

System (Environment

Safeguards Officer)

23

movement of vehicles and equipment

dusty materials Cover trucks transporting dusty materials

Noise Construction activities can generate noise which can be disruptive to behavioral patterns of local inhabitants and wildlife.

Maintenance should be performed regularly on all equipments and machinery. All construction vehicles must have mufflers in good condition to avoid excessive noise emissions Equipment and devices must be turned/switched off when not in use.

Construction activities should be limited to legally permissible times, or to between 7:00 AM and 6:00PM, whichever is stricter. If work must be done outside these time limits: (a) permission must be obtained from the appropriate authorities and (b) local residents be given sufficient advanced notification.

Minor

Western Energy

System (Environment

Safeguards Officer)

Alteration of runoff patterns Land clearing and modification to land surface contours can alter runoff patterns and introduce localized flooding

Maintain minimal changes to land contours, channel runoff to avoid

roads and migratory pathways

Minor

Contractor


Stripped topsoil for the construction should be covered to prevent erosion and used for rehabilitation of Vegetation coverage at the end of the construction.

Minor

Contractor


All land clearance should be implemented either manually and/or mechanically. No pesticides are to be used for land clearance. Vegetative waste should not be burned, but collected and managed as non-hazardous solid waste.

Minor

Minor

Contractor

Construction Related Solid Wastes

Hazardous: used oils, lubricants, excess

Toxic waste such as oil and lubricants, their plastic containers

Minor

Contractor

24

paints and or coating materials, adhesives require special handling and treatment

Non-Hazardous: wastes from packaging, inert construction materials and possibly domestic wastes from worker camps require proper management

and used batteries should be categorized and sent to waste market.

Toxic-hazardous waste should be sorted into appropriate marked/labeled bags and containers for safe handling to disposal.

Garbage bins should be placed on each construction site.

Packaging papers, foam, plastic, wood, metal and glass materials, clay, concrete, and paints should be categorized into separate containers/bags for transport to the waste market and/or central disposal site.

Minor

Minor

Minor

Wastewaters generated from cleaning equipment or possibly domestic wastewaters from sanitary facilities and worker camps will require proper management.

Maintenance and repair services to machineries are crucial actions to take on a regular basis to avoid sudden fuel or gas leakage. Perform maintenance and repair services at a specific location with an impermeable surface and wastewater is collected for further treatment. Domestic and sanitary wastewater either collected and disposed at local municipal treatment facilities or collected in septic tanks.

Minor

Minor

Minor

Contractor

Avifauna Define acceptable

construction periods to avoid

nesting activities of

Mongolian Ground Jay and

other ground-nesting

avifauna

Identify and delineate on-site

nesting areas for Mongolian

Ground Jay and other

ground-nesting avifauna to

be avoided by construction

crews and/or identify

procedures for minimal

disturbances

Minor Local bird expert and Contractor

25


If the Construction Contractor discovers sites/artifacts of archeological, historical, significance, including graveyards and/or individual graves during excavation or construction, the Construction Contractor shall:

Stop the construction activities in the area of the chance find immediately;

Notify the project manager who in turn will notify responsible authorities in charge of the Cultural Property

Secure the site to prevent any damage or loss of removable objects. In cases of removable antiquities or sensitive remains, constant guarding of the site shall be arranged until the responsible authorities take over;

Delineate the discovered site or area

Relevant authorities would be in charge of protecting and preserving the site before deciding on subsequent procedures.

Decisions on how to proceed shall be taken by the responsible authorities.

If the cultural sites and/or relics are of high value and site preservation is recommended by professionals and required by the cultural relics authority, the project sponsor will make necessary design changes to accommodate the request and preserve the site;

Decisions concerning the management of the finding shall be communicated in writing by relevant authorities;

Construction works could resume only after written permission is granted from the responsible authorities concerning safeguard of the heritage

Any worker removing such artifacts for personal use or gain,

Minor

Contractor

26

shall be dismissed and subjected to legal action.

Worker safety Construction activities will expose workers to hazardous conditions and materials that may affect their safety and health

Mongolia’s requirements for worker health and safety will be followed. (Refer to Mongolian Labour Law, (Part VII- Labour conditions, Health and Safety, Section 83-To provide the labour health and safety condition, Section 84- To ensure the occupational safety and hygiene requirements, 85- To compensate the damages caused by employees due to industrial accidents, poisoning and occupational diseases). In addition, worker health and safety will be followed in accordance with any project sponsor protocols).

The Construction Contractor shall provide safety measures such as installation of fences, barriers warning signs, lighting systems to prevent traffic accidents as well as other risk to people and sensitive areas.

Alcohol use by workers during work hours is strictly prohibited.

The employer shall provide instructions to workers for labour safety and health requirements every day before commencement of work. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by workers will be strictly enforced.

Minor

Contractor

Operation

Socio-economic impacts Positive impacts associated with local employment, training and education opportunities.

Priority training and employment of women, for long term operations roles. Priority hiring of local skilled workers, including additional training if needed to support the operations workforce. Improvement of local knowledge, understanding and ownership of the solar plant through high school renewable energy education presentations and site

Positive Western Energy System (Social

Safeguards Officer)

27

tour.

Visual disruption Reflection of sunlight off solar modules can affect drivers’ visions and disrupt migratory bird flight patterns

Glaze solar panel and frame with anti-reflective coating, the glint and glare reflections to reduce safety hazard to drivers, use anti-reflective coated solar PV module.

Minor

Western Energy

System (Environment Safeguards Officer)

Groundwater availability Significant drawdown of groundwaters for panel washing could lower the groundwater table affecting water availability to other users Panel washing wastewaters Wastewaters from panel washing may contain pollutants and contaminate receiving waters

If design efforts indicate sufficient water resources are available, all necessary permits, approvals etc. for water withdrawal and use must be obtained prior to plant operation. If conventional solar panel design is selected, water cleansing will only be necessary to remove dust deposits on the panels. Therefore, no cleansing agents (soap, detergents, special cleansing agents) will be added to wash waters. Wash water will be discharged untreated. However, land will be set aside for treatment facilities if wastewater quality analysis after the first two washings indicate treatment is needed. If dry self-cleaning solar panel design is selected, there would be no wastewaters generated.

Minor

Minor

Western Energy System (Environment

Safeguards Officer)


No PCBs are to be used in any electrical equipment. Any contaminated soil is to be excavated, removed and collected by contractors licensed to handle these wastes.

Minor

Western Energy System

(Environment Safeguards Officer)

Ecology Selected site for both the solar photovoltaic panels and the route of the transmission line may interfere with migratory routes of birds, migration patterns of land based wildlife or grazing areas for domesticated livestock.

The entire solar voltaic facility is to be fenced, to prevent livestock grazing or migration of wildlife. Overhead transmission lines are to be equipped with aviary diverters or place transmission line underground.

Minor

Minor

Western Energy

System (Environment

Safeguards Officer)

28

Decommissioning

Waste Disposal Recyclable materials are to be collected separated and either reused at existing solar photovoltaic facilities or sold as scrap to companies licensed to manage these wastes Non-recyclable materials must be deposited at government approved disposal sites.

Minor

Minor



Land surface restoration Land should be restored as closely as possible to the original contours and revegetated with native species similar or equivalent to species originally existing in the area.

Minor



MONITORING PLAN

Issue What parameter is to be monitored

Where is the

parameter to be monitored

How is the

parameter to be

monitored/ type of

monitoring equipment

When is the

parameter to be monitored-frequency of

measurement or continuous

Cost What is the

cost of equipment or

contractor charges to

perform monitoring

Responsibility

Construction

Socio-economic

Community health & Safety Induction& code of conduct Local hiring & supply

Signage, barriers & safe speed limits. Completion of induction/ signing of code of conduct. # of local workers hired # of local suppliers used

Construction site

Construction site

Visual observatio

n. Induction/

code of conduct

documentation

Employment & contracting documentation

Weekly

Monthly

Monthly

Minor Contractor & Western Energy System (Social

Safeguards officer)

Air Quality Engine

exhausts

Fugitive dust emissions

Compliance Certificate Ambient dust

Prior to site entry Construction

Visual

Visual

First time prior

to site entry

Daily during dry windy

Minor

Minor

Western Energy

System (Environment

Safeguards Officer)

29

site

conditions

Noise Sound levels Construction site fence line Nearest population center

dB meter Weekly or if there are

complaints


(Environment Safeguards

Officer)

Alteration of runoff patterns

Site surface contours

Construction site

Visual Weekly, during site preparation

activities



Officer)

Topsoil removal

Topsoil storage covering

Topsoil storage site

Visual Weekly, during site preparation

activities



Officer)

Vegetative waste production

No pesticide use? Disposal of waste (no burning)?

Construction site

Vegetative storage site

Visual

Visual

Weekly, during site preparation

activities

Minor

Minor



Officer)

Construction Related Solid Wastes Hazardous Non-hazardous

Sent to waste market or properly disposed? Garbage bins provided or waste market and/or sent to central disposal site?

Construction

site

Construction site

Visual

Visual

Weekly

Weekly

Minor

Minor



Officer)



Officer)

Wastewater Regular machinery maintenance Dedicated repair location? Domestic wastewater to municipal sewage or

Construction site

Construction

site

Sewage disposal site

Visual

Visual

Visual

Weekly

Start of construction

Start of construction

Minor

Minor

Minor



Officer)

30

septic system?

Cultural resources

Chance find procedures followed?

Discovery site Visual and discussions

When discovery is made

Minor

Western Energy System (Social

Safeguards Officer)

Worker safety

Mongolia’s requirements for worker health and safety followed?

Construction site

Visual and discussions

Weekly Minor



Officer)

Ground Nester birds

Disruption of nesting patterns

In accordance with AMP Local bird expert in conjunction with local NGO

engaged by Western Electric

System

Operation

Socio-economic

Induction & code of conduct for new hires Local hiring and training Education

Completion of induction/ signing of code of conduct. % of operations workforce locally hired # of women hired # of persons trained # of students receive site tour and presentation on renewables

Plant site Record keeping

Semi-annual Minor Western Energy System (Social

Safeguards officer)

Visual disruption

Solar panel and frame glazed with anti-reflective coating?

Delivery location

Visual Upon delivery of panels

Minor



Officer)

Groundwater availability Panel washing

Permits in order?

Only water (no soap or

Plant site

Water supply site

Visual

Visual First two

Prior to start of operation

Prior to start of operation

Minor

Minor



Officer)

31

wastewaters (If conventional solar panel design is selected)

detergents used)

wastewaters will be

tested for standard

pollutants, e.g.

suspended solids,

nutrients (P, N), COD,

etc.

Western Energy

System (Environment

Safeguards Officer)

Hazardous wastes

All electrical equipment free of PCB

Contaminate

d soil managed by

licensed contractors?

Check bid document

A site of contaminatio

n

Visual

Visual

Upon delivery of equipment

At time of treatment

Minor

Depends on extent of

contamination



Officer)

Ecology

Plant site fenced

properly?

Fence properly

maintained?

Overhead transmission

lines equipped

with diverters?

Along plant fence line

Along plant fence line

Along entire length of

transmission line

Visual

Visual

Visual

Upon construction completion,

prior to operation

Semi-annually

Upon construction completion,

prior to energizing,

then annually

Minor

Minor

Minor



Officer)

Migratory and Ground Nester birds

Migratory: collision with solar panels and transmission line Ground nester: Disruption of nesting patterns

In accordance with AMP Local bird expert in conjunction with local NGO

engaged by Western Energy

System

Decommissioning

Waste Disposal

Recyclable materials

At collection point

Visual

During and until

Minor


32

properly managed?

Non-

recyclable materials

disposed at government

approved site?

Disposal site

Visual

decommissioning is complete

During and until

decommissioning is complete

Minor


Officer)



Officer)

Land surface restoration

Plant site should be

restored as closely as

possible to the original

contours

Plant site revegetated with native

species similar or

equivalent to species

originally existing in the area

At plant site

At plant site

Visual

Visual

After solar plant

equipment and facilities have been removed

After plant site land surface

contours, have been re-

established

Minor

Minor



Officer)



Officer) with inputs from a local botanist

expert

33

ANNEX C: SUMMARY OF CONSULTATIONS Table C.1 Initial Stakeholder Consultation Meeting Participant List Position Name

Thursday 22nd

September

Hovd Aimag Governor Mr. Damdin Galsandondog

Manager Hovd Distribution Utility Mr. Tserendamdin

Retired Energy Advisor Mr. Hoolej

Manager Hovd Transmission Utility Mr. Purev

Friday 23rd

September

Mayangad Soum Governor Mr. Davaadorj

Mayangad Land Officer Ms. Tsetsegmaa

Mayangad Environment Officer Ms. Khishigtogtokz

Umnugovi Soum Governor Mr. Tomoryondor Padhaariin

Umnugovi Environment Officer Mr. Lkhamjar

Umnugoiv Land Officer Mr. Puzersuren

Executive Director for the Western Energy System

Mr. Naranchanga Tsegmid

Friday 29th

of September

Solar Power International LLC Project Manager/ IRENA Senior Renewable Energy Technology R&D Analyst

Dr Namjil Enebish

Monday October 3rd

Director, Wildlife Science and Conservation Centre of Mongolia

Mr. Batbayar Nyambayar

Wednesday October 5th

Mongol Us, Department head Mr. Bolor A.

Mongol Us, General Engineer Ms. Kh Shurentsetseg

Ministry of Environment Green Development & Tourism, Head of EIA & Audit Division

Ms. Bunchinjav P.

World Wildlife Fund, Conservation Director Mr. Chimeddorj Buyanaa

Tuesday November 15th

Haras Lake Zavkhan River Basin Administration Director

Mr. Buyantsogt

Wednesday November 16th

Khar Us Nuur National Park protected area administration Research specialist

Ms. Ms. Uranchimeg; Ms. Erdenchimeg; Ms. Dagiisuren

Thursday November 17th

Hovd Aimag Deputy Governor Mr. Batsukh

Hovd Aimag Land Officer Mr. Dulbadral

34

Hovd Aimag Environmental Officer Mr. Tseveenravdan

Mayangad Soum Governor Mr. Davaadorj

Mayangad Land Officer Mr. Dulbadrakh

Mayangad Environment Officer Ms. Doloonkhuu

Umnugovi Soum Governor Mr. Tomoryondor Padhaariin

Umnugovi Environment Officer Mr. Lkhamjaw

Umnugoiv Land Officer Mr. Puresuren

Friday November 18th

Uvs Aimag Deputy Governor Mr. Batsaikhan

Uvs Aimag Land Officer Mr. Chuluunbat

Uvs Aimag Environmental Officer Mr. Batzul

Western Energy System Director Mr. Nyamtuul

Soum Electricity engineer (IDI-MMCG) Mr. Erdenebaatar

Representative of residents for social activites (IDI-MMCG)

Mr. Tsagaach

Representative of herders (IDI-MMCG) Mr. Myadagmaa

Representative of herders (IDI-MMCG) Mr. Baasandorj

Mayangad, Head of Bagh of Bayankhoshuu (center of soum) (IDI-MMCG)

Mrs. Altantsetseg

Umnogovi, General secretary of soum (IDI-MMCG)

Mr. Zorig

Umnugovi, Soum Electricity engineer (IDI-MMCG)

Mr. Tsooj

Turgen Soum, Governor of Turgen soum (IDI-MMCG)

Mr. Bayanjargal

Turgen Soum, Herder of Turgen soum (IDI-MMCG)

Mr. Bayannemekh


Mr. Norovsuren


Mr. Batchuluun

35

Table C.2 Public EAR Consultation Participant List 2nd of December in Mayangad Soum Centre # Name Organisation

1 Даваадорж, Мянгад сумын Засаг дарга

2 Түмэнжаргал ЭХЯ-ны СБТГ-ын сэргээгдэх эрчим хүч хариуцсан мэргэжилтэн

3 Д.Ганбаатар ЭХЯ-ны Дэлхийн банкны судалгааны багын ахлах инженер

4 Б.Батдэлгэр ЭХЯ-ны Дэлхийн банкны судалгааны багын инженер

5 Н.Алтангэрэл ББЭХС ТӨХК-ийн Ховд ЦТС ХХК-ийн ерөнхий инженер

6 Б.Энх-Амар ББЭХС ТӨХК-ийн Ховд салбарын ахлах инженер

7 О.Ойдов Ховд аймгийн Байгаль орчин хариуцсан мэргэжилтэн

8 Р.Цэцэгмаа, Б.Цэцэн Ховд аймгийн Газрын асуудал хариуцсан мэргэжилтэнүүд

9 Сэтгүүлч, Зураглаач,жолооч Орон нутгийн Жаргалан телевиз-3 хүн

10 Инженерүүд-3, үйлчилгээний ажилтан-2, жолооч-1

ББЭХС ТӨХК-ийн Ховд ЦТС ХХК-ийн инженер техникийн ажилтанууд-6 хүн

# Name Organisation/ Citizen

1. С.Лхамхүү Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

2. Нямболд Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

3. Баянмөнх Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

4. Чогсом Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

5. Ч.Баттулга Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

6. Ц.Энхтуяа Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

7. Цагаач Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн Ахмадын хорооны дарга /95533111

8. Д.Бадам Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

9. Ц.Батнасан Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

10. М.Пүрэвхүү Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

11 Г.Баттөмөр Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

12 Б.Зул Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

36

13 Ш.Даваахүү Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

14 Б.Хишигдулам Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

15 Д.Чинзориг Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

16 Т.Балган Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

17. Даваасүрэн Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

18. Б.Энхтуяа Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

19. Н.Мөнхтуул Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

20. Эрдэнэбаатар Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

21 Алтангадас Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

22 Ж.Батбуян Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

23 Нацагням Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

24 Н.Нямцэцэг Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

25 Ц.Отгонбаатар Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

26 Н.Энхтуяа Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

27. Батболд Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

28. Д.Хишгээ Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

29. Б.Мөнхзул Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

30. Н.Дарьдулам Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

31 Б.Нарантуяа Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

32 Г.Лхагвасүрэн Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

33 Д.Нэргүй Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

34 Чулуунхүү Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

35 Отгонзаяа Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

36. Энхбат Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

37. Оюун Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

38. Нямхүү Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

39. М.БАянжаргал Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

40. Ж.Батсайхан Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

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41. Болдбаатар Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

42. Даваасүрэн Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

43 Галдан Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

44 Б.Сайнбуян Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

45 Б.Эрдэнэчимэг Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

46. Ж.Бямбажав Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

47. Б.Батхуяг Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

48. Ш.Төрмөнх Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

49. М.Ганболд Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

50. Н.Мөнхтөр Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

51. Энхтөр Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

52 О.Мягмардаваа Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

53 Д.Алтанцэцэг Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

54 М.Цэвээндарь Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

155 Ч.Мөнгөнхүү Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

56. Б.Сарангэрэл Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

57. Х.Түмэндэмбэрэл Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

58. Э.Ууганзаяа Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

59. Д.Баатарсүрэн Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

60. А.Сайнжаргал Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

61 К.Мереке Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

62 Г.Отгонзаяа Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

63 Г.Оролмаа Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

64 Д.Одончимэг Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

65 Д.Хашбаатар Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

66. Б.Ганбол Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

67. У.Пүрэвдорж Ховд аймгийн Мянгад сумын иргэн

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Table C.2 PUBLIC ESIA CONSULTATION MEETING SUMMARY Date

02 December 2016

Time 12-15:00 Location Mayangad Soum, Hovd Province Participants Ministerial stakeholders; Provincial government stakeholders; local

government stakeholders; Renewable Energy Specialists, Engineers from WES; Local Media/Television; local residents

Meeting Purpose

Introduce EAR and Solar Component activities Introduce to the public what is involved in a solar project, potential impacts, especially disturbances during construction activities over a 6 month period (i.e. noise, contractors staying in community, potential jobs for unskilled labor). Legal Framework for the EAR Key Questions & Concerns raised by Participants

Introduced delegates arrived in discussion meeting. In order to hear opinions of local people about new construction and exchange views, made a presentation about 10MW capacity Solar power plant invested by World bank planned to build on the north side of the soum within 20 hectares land. Made a detailed presentation of the resolution on the funding of treated donor countries in renewable energy. Introduced Myangad soum’ s territory belonged to environmental 4 zones, ecological situation of Khar us land, area of Khovd river and environmental impact of the project. Local government informed notice about the wishes to issuance permission to build Solar power plant 20ha land located south side of the current garbage dump which is north side of 110/35/10kV Myangad substation in according to support of soum meeting. Outlined about the issued center land of the soum planned to implement the project is not belonged to water resource and reserve land, and not registered ownership. Spoke about how to impact currently proposed 10MW substation in Khovd province by Western Region Energy System to energy supply of electricity power customers, and to be able to produce electricity power of the high cost of electricity imported from Russia on their own. Presented how to improve problems of customers structure and current situation under project implementation, and also energy sustainable will improve and energy tariff will be stabilized. Would be grateful if local people tell us what they think after presentation. Key discussion as follows: Heard about Solar power plant construction in 20ha north side of our soum. Resident pointed that the Myangad soum territory has natural formation created lot dusting of delicate soil and added ground water and surface water sustains their lives. Furthermore questioned about how to coordinate those issues.

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From province governor side supporting the project in according to documents given to you said Solar plant is environmentally safe, has no negative impact considered worldwide. However, need to do environmental detailed assessment. Moreover, in order to clean solar radiation collection boards certain water will be required. Therefore he said about the regulation to that water payment will be allocate into local budget. Said about that issued land’s 4-5 hectares belonged to garbage dump will cleaned to use. Resident asked question about if it is necessary to get loan from abroad again for energy usage supply requirement when Mongolia has hard economic situation, and wondered also possibility to work under current infrastructure system. Response: Mentioned this project investment will not belong to Mongolian loan, and added about has long-term with low interest rate condition. Moreover, half of the project consists of the possibility obtaining a grant loan. Residnet said he is happy to know that solar resource will be near to soum center and asked if the plant will hire local people and number of permanent jobs. Response: construction work will be performed by internal or international contracters and build construction and excavation work need temporary human resources from local people. Can I value your inquiry to understand that they are willing to include provisions on labor recruitment documents from local residents. Resdients The unanimous answer is YES Resident thanked those people who is making the discussion to influence soum local development implementing the project. Called residents people for support to the construction of the project, not to interfere. Residents are very interested into if it would be barrier to close the road when many livestock households of soum center are releasing grazing livestock pastures to the northern side, and if there is any opportunity to not increase electricity power tariff. Response: Animals are not grazing by through north side of the soum, garbage dump, therefore, won’t have barriers to close the road. But regarding the buried include funding for waste destruction point shall asked to project implementers from local community. From north side of soum garbage dump, rubbish will blow away into substation land, furthermore, arise problem to bury destruction dump point. Resident asked if nearby substation asked to take action on the green, tree planting lawn. Resdidents asked questions related to electricity power and received answers from related people. Conclusions from public consultation 1. Measures to take included in the document carefully to avoid dust emissions. 2. Water consumption of solar plant should have pointed into environmental detailed assessment. 3. Ensure to prioritise the provision to provide jobs to local people in selection documents. 4. To organize destruct and bury current garbage dump by environment-friendly way. 5. The planting trees and grassland on the north substation. 6. Because of Myangad substation’s current 2 transformers capacity overloaded to 60-80 percent, so install new 2

transformers with 2*16000 Mwa capacity and upgrade the related electricity equipment.

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