Preliminary Environmental and Social Impact Assessment 100 MW Solar PV Plant by Navoi in Uzbekistan

COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE Preliminary Environmental and Social Impact Assessment 100 MW Solar PV Plant by Navoi in Uzbekistan Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC 19 June 2020 Public Disclosure AuthorizedPublic Disclosure AuthorizedPublic Disclosure AuthorizedPublic Disclosure Authorized Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 1 Introduction Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 2 Quality information Prepared by Checked by Verified by Approved by Greg McAlister Associate Director, Environment and Planning Dr Brian Cuthbert Associate Director, Ecology & Impact Assessment Iain Bell Regional Director, Environment & Planning Iain Bell Regional Director, Environment & Planning Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Prepared by: AECOM Limited 1 Tanfield Edinburgh EH3 5DA United Kingdom T: +44 (131) 347 1100 www.aecom.com © 2020 AECOM Limited. All Rights Reserved. This document has been prepared by AECOM Limited (“AECOM”) for sole use of our client (the “Client”) in accordance with generally accepted consultancy principles, the budget for fees and the terms of reference agreed between AECOM and the Client. Any information provided by third parties and referred to herein has not been checked or verified by AECOM, unless otherwise expressly stated in the document. No third party may rely upon this document without the prior and express written agreement of AECOM. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 1 Introduction Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 3 Table of Contents 1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 10 1.1 Overview of the Project ................................................................................................... 10 1.2 Details of the Project Developer ..................................................................................... 12 1.2.1 Name of Company .......................................................................................................... 12 1.3 Preliminary Report Structure........................................................................................... 12 2. Project Description .................................................................................................................... 13 2.1 Project Location .............................................................................................................. 13 2.2 Overview of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Technology ............................................................ 21 2.3 Description of Key Design Components ......................................................................... 22 2.3.1 PV Power Plant Layout ................................................................................................... 23 2.3.2 Photovoltaic Modules ...................................................................................................... 24 2.3.3 Mount Foundations ......................................................................................................... 25 2.3.4 Solar Inverter, Switchgear, and Transformers ................................................................. 25 2.3.5 Cabling ........................................................................................................................... 26 2.3.6 Transformers................................................................................................................... 26 2.3.7 Onsite Substation ........................................................................................................... 27 2.3.8 Transport Infrastructure .................................................................................................. 28 2.3.9 Fencing and Security ...................................................................................................... 28 2.3.10 Water Resources ............................................................................................................ 28 2.3.10.1 Water use .................................................................................................................. 28 2.3.10.2 Surface Water Drainage ............................................................................................ 29 2.3.11 Grid Connection .............................................................................................................. 29 2.4 Overview of Project Construction and Commissioning Activities .................................... 29 2.4.1 Construction Programme ................................................................................................ 30 2.4.2 Pre-construction Phase .................................................................................................. 30 2.4.2.1 Conducting of Surveys .............................................................................................. 30 2.4.2.2 Site Preparation and Grading .................................................................................... 30 2.4.3 Construction Phase ........................................................................................................ 30 2.4.3.1 Establishment of Access Roads to the Site ............................................................... 30 2.4.3.2 Stores and Power Control Centre, and Storage Facilities ......................................... 30 2.4.3.3 Power Substation and Interconnection Facilities to the Utility Electricity Grid ........... 30 2.4.3.4 Workers Accommodation .......................................................................................... 31 2.4.3.5 Water availability ....................................................................................................... 31 2.4.3.6 Emergency and Safety Support Systems .................................................................. 31 2.4.4 Infrastructure Requirements during Construction of Power Plant ................................... 32 2.4.5 Operational Phase .......................................................................................................... 32 2.4.5.1 General Plant Maintenance ....................................................................................... 32 2.4.6 Decommissioning Phase ................................................................................................ 32 2.4.6.1 Site Preparation and Temporary Storage .................................................................. 33 2.4.6.2 Disassemble and or Replace Existing Components .................................................. 33 2.4.6.3 Site Remediation ....................................................................................................... 33 2.5 Project Staffing ............................................................................................................... 33 2.6 Project Alternatives ......................................................................................................... 35 2.6.1 Uzbekistan’s Green Economy Strategy .......................................................................... 35 2.6.2 Without the Project ......................................................................................................... 35 2.6.3 Site Selection .................................................................................................................. 35 2.6.4 Review of Site Considerations ........................................................................................ 35 3. Legal and Policy Framework ..................................................................................................... 37 3.1 Uzbekistan’s Green Economy Strategy .......................................................................... 37 3.2 Institutional framework .................................................................................................... 37 Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 1 Introduction Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 4 3.3 National Environmental and Social Legislation ............................................................... 38 3.3.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................... 38 3.3.2 Requirements of the National EIA Procedure ................................................................. 40 3.3.3 National Social Legislation .............................................................................................. 40 3.3.4 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Legislative and Policy Context ................................ 41 3.3.4.1 Uzbek Legislative Context ......................................................................................... 41 3.3.4.2 Uzbek International Agreements and Conventions ................................................... 43 3.4 International Agreements ................................................................................................ 44 3.5 International Best Practice Guidelines ............................................................................ 46 3.5.1 Equator Principles and IFC Performance Standards ...................................................... 46 3.5.2 African Development Bank Integrated Safeguards System ............................................ 47 4. Environmental and Social Assessment Methodology................................................................ 48 4.1 Baseline .......................................................................................................................... 48 4.1.1 Project Area of Influence and Study Area ....................................................................... 48 4.1.2 Data Collection and Baseline Characterisation ............................................................... 49 4.2 Impact Assessment ......................................................................................................... 50 4.2.1 Assessment of Cumulative Impacts ................................................................................ 51 4.2.2 Mitigation Design ............................................................................................................ 51 4.2.3 Assessment of Residual Impacts .................................................................................... 53 5. Stakeholder Engagement Programme ...................................................................................... 54 5.1 Previous Stakeholder Engagement Activities: Scoping and ESIA Phases ...................... 54 5.2 ESIA Stakeholder Engagement Activities .......................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 5.3 Future Stakeholder Engagement Activities ..................................................................... 62 6. Environmental and Social Baseline .......................................................................................... 68 6.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................... 68 6.2 Field Reconnaissance .................................................................................................... 68 6.3 Physical characteristics .................................................................................................. 68 6.3.1 Climate and Meteorology ................................................................................................ 68 6.3.2 Geology and Soils ........................................................................................................... 70 6.3.2.1 Overview ................................................................................................................... 70 6.3.2.2 Ground investigations................................................................................................ 70 6.3.2.3 Local Geology ........................................................................................................... 71 6.3.2.4 Seismicity .................................................................................................................. 72 6.3.3 Hydrology and hydrogeology .......................................................................................... 72 6.3.3.1 Regional .................................................................................................................... 72 6.3.3.2 Local.......................................................................................................................... 74 6.3.3.3 Water Quality ............................................................................................................. 75 6.3.3.4 Groundwater ............................................................................................................. 75 6.3.3.5 Flood Risk ................................................................................................................. 75 6.3.3.6 Water Resources ....................................................................................................... 76 6.3.4 Utilities ............................................................................................................................ 76 6.3.5 Air Quality ....................................................................................................................... 78 6.3.6 Noise, Vibration and Light ............................................................................................... 78 6.4 Landscape and Visual..................................................................................................... 78 6.4.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 78 6.4.2 Baseline Data Collection ................................................................................................. 79 6.4.2.1 Study Area ................................................................................................................. 79 6.4.2.2 Data Sources ............................................................................................................ 81 6.4.3 Current Landscape Condition ......................................................................................... 81 6.4.3.1 Landscape Character Areas ...................................................................................... 82 6.4.3.2 Zone of Theoretical Visibility ...................................................................................... 85 6.5 Biodiversity ..................................................................................................................... 93 Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 1 Introduction Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 5 6.5.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................... 93 6.5.2 Site Survey Methodology ................................................................................................ 93 6.5.2.1 Vegetation Study ....................................................................................................... 93 6.5.2.2 Terrestrial Fauna Study ............................................................................................. 93 6.5.2.3 Avifauna Survey ........................................................................................................ 94 6.5.3 Habitats........................................................................................................................... 94 6.5.4 Protected Areas .............................................................................................................. 95 6.5.5 Flyways ........................................................................................................................... 96 6.5.6 Avifauna .......................................................................................................................... 96 6.5.6.1 Species of Concern ................................................................................................... 97 6.5.6.2 Survey Results for the AECOM March 2020 Breeding and non-breeding residents (migratory) birds .............................................................................................................. 99 6.5.6.3 Survey Results for Resident and Over-wintering Species ........................................100 6.5.7 Flora ..............................................................................................................................100 6.5.7.1 Terrestrial Mammals .................................................................................................100 6.5.7.2 Bats ..........................................................................................................................101 6.5.7.3 Reptiles ....................................................................................................................101 6.6 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage ................................................................................104 6.6.1 Approach to Assessment ...............................................................................................104 6.6.2 Desktop Study Methodology ..........................................................................................104 6.6.3 Stakeholder Consultation ...............................................................................................105 6.6.4 Cultural heritage baseline context ..................................................................................105 6.6.4.1 Site Location, Palaeontology and Palaeoclimate .....................................................105 6.6.4.2 Previous archaeological investigations.....................................................................105 6.6.4.3 Archaeological and Historical Background ...............................................................106 6.6.4.4 Tangible Cultural Heritage ........................................................................................ 113 6.6.4.5 Intangible Cultural Heritage ...................................................................................... 114 6.6.4.6 Critical Cultural Heritage .......................................................................................... 115 6.7 Socio-economic Conditions ........................................................................................... 118 6.7.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................... 118 6.7.2 Economy ........................................................................................................................ 118 6.7.3 Population ......................................................................................................................120 6.7.4 Education .......................................................................................................................122 6.7.5 Transportation ................................................................................................................123 6.7.6 Public Health..................................................................................................................124 6.7.7 Utilities ...........................................................................................................................125 6.7.8 Labour and Working Conditions .....................................................................................125 6.7.9 Current Land Use ..........................................................................................................125 6.7.10 Potential Receptors .......................................................................................................126 6.8 Transportation and Access ............................................................................................127 6.8.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................127 6.8.1.1 Baseline Data Collection ..........................................................................................127 6.8.2 Baseline Conditions (Road) ...........................................................................................127 6.8.2.1 Transportation Route ................................................................................................127 6.8.2.2 Road Description ......................................................................................................128 6.8.3 Road Safety ...................................................................................................................129 6.8.4 Roads Sensitivity Analysis .............................................................................................129 6.8.5 Rail Transport ................................................................................................................130 7. Preliminary Impact Assessment ...............................................................................................131 7.1 Construction Phase Impacts ..........................................................................................131 7.1.1 Hydrology and Hydrogeology.........................................................................................131 7.1.1.1 Surface Water ..........................................................................................................131 Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 1 Introduction Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 6 7.1.1.2 Groundwater ............................................................................................................132 7.1.2 Landscape and Visual....................................................................................................133 7.1.2.1 Receptor Sensitivity..................................................................................................133 7.1.2.2 Impacts on Landscape Character and Visual Amenity .............................................134 7.1.3 Biodiversity ....................................................................................................................135 7.1.3.1 Avifauna ...................................................................................................................135 7.1.3.2 Terrestrial Ecology ....................................................................................................136 7.1.4 Geology and Soils ..........................................................................................................137 7.1.4.1 General ....................................................................................................................137 7.1.4.2 Ground conditions ....................................................................................................138 7.1.4.3 Soil and water corrosiveness ...................................................................................138 7.1.5 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage ................................................................................139 7.1.6 Noise and Air Pollution ...................................................................................................140 7.1.7 Social Impacts ...............................................................................................................141 7.1.7.1 Social Impact List .....................................................................................................142 7.1.7.2 Community expectations of the Project ....................................................................142 7.1.7.3 Increased local employment, capacity building and supply demand ........................143 7.1.7.4 Capacity strain contribution to local public services and facilities .............................144 7.1.7.5 Loss of public access and reduced mobility through local paths ..............................145 7.1.7.6 Reduced access to grazing and pastoral land ..........................................................146 7.1.7.7 Increased presence of workers and interaction with local communities ...................147 7.1.7.8 Increased presence of security personnel ................................................................148 7.1.8 Traffic and Transportation ..............................................................................................149 7.1.8.1 Assessment Methodology ........................................................................................149 7.1.8.2 Guidance ..................................................................................................................149 7.1.8.3 Assessment of Effects ..............................................................................................149 7.1.8.4 Assumptions .............................................................................................................151 7.1.8.5 Traffic Generation .....................................................................................................151 7.1.8.6 Effects on the Road Network ....................................................................................152 7.2 Operational Phase Impacts............................................................................................154 7.2.1 Landscape and Visual Impact ........................................................................................154 7.2.2 Hydrology and Hydrogeology.........................................................................................154 7.2.3 Biodiversity ....................................................................................................................155 7.2.3.1 Avifauna ...................................................................................................................155 7.2.3.2 Terrestrial Ecology ....................................................................................................156 7.2.4 Geology and Soils ..........................................................................................................157 7.2.5 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage ................................................................................157 7.2.5.1 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Receptors and Receptor Sensitivity ..................157 7.2.5.2 Assessment of Impacts ............................................................................................160 7.2.6 Noise .............................................................................................................................160 7.2.7 Glare and Glint ...............................................................................................................161 7.2.8 Social Impacts ...............................................................................................................162 7.2.8.1 Occupational Health and Safety During Operation ...................................................162 7.2.8.2 Impacts on land and livelihoods from land occupied by the project area..................163 7.2.8.3 Grazing land for livestock. ........................................................................................164 7.2.8.4 Impacts from local employment during operation .....................................................165 7.2.8.5 Impacts on the national and regional economy during operation .............................165 7.2.9 Transportation and Access ............................................................................................166 7.3 Decommissioning Phase Impacts ..................................................................................166 7.3.1.1 Occupational Health and Safety ...............................................................................166 7.3.1.2 Air Pollution ..............................................................................................................166 7.3.1.3 Noise ........................................................................................................................167 Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 1 Introduction Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 7 7.3.1.4 Hydrology and Hydrogeology ...................................................................................167 7.3.1.5 Biodiversity ...............................................................................................................167 7.3.1.6 Terrestrial Ecology ....................................................................................................167 7.3.1.7 Geology and Soils ....................................................................................................167 7.3.1.8 Social Impacts ..........................................................................................................167 7.3.1.9 Transportation and Access .......................................................................................167 8. Mitigation and Enhancement Measures ...................................................................................168 8.1 Landscape and Visual....................................................................................................168 8.1.1 Design Phase ................................................................................................................168 8.1.2 Construction Phase .......................................................................................................168 8.1.3 Operational Phase .........................................................................................................168 8.2 Flora and Fauna ............................................................................................................168 8.2.1 Pre-Construction / Site Clearance .................................................................................168 8.2.2 Construction Phase .......................................................................................................169 8.2.3 Operational Phase .........................................................................................................169 8.3 Hydrology and Hydrogeology.........................................................................................170 8.3.1 Site Preparation .............................................................................................................170 8.3.2 Construction Phase .......................................................................................................170 8.3.3 Operational Phase .........................................................................................................170 8.4 Geology and Soils ..........................................................................................................171 8.4.1 Site Preparation .............................................................................................................171 8.4.2 Construction Phase .......................................................................................................171 8.4.2.1 Soil strength and foundations ...................................................................................171 8.4.2.2 Trenches and earthworks .........................................................................................171 8.4.2.3 General ....................................................................................................................171 8.4.3 Operational Phase .........................................................................................................172 8.4.3.1 Seismicity .................................................................................................................172 8.4.3.2 General ....................................................................................................................172 8.5 Noise .............................................................................................................................173 8.5.1 Construction Phase .......................................................................................................173 8.5.2 Operational Phase .........................................................................................................173 8.6 Social Mitigation and Enhancement ...............................................................................173 8.6.1 Construction Phase .......................................................................................................173 8.6.1.1 Unmet Project Expectations .....................................................................................173 8.6.1.2 Increased local employment, capacity building and supply demand ........................174 8.6.1.3 Capacity strain contribution to local public services and facilities .............................174 8.6.1.4 Loss of public access and reduced mobility through local paths (CON & OP) .........175 8.6.1.5 Reduced access to grazing and pastoral land ..........................................................175 8.6.1.6 Increased presence of workers and interaction with local communities ...................175 8.6.1.7 Increased road traffic ................................................................................................175 8.6.1.8 Increased presence of security personnel ................................................................176 8.6.1.9 Unplanned events: Potential workforce H&S risks ...................................................176 8.6.1.10 Unplanned events: pollution and road incidents and accidents ................................176 8.6.2 Operation Phase ............................................................................................................177 8.6.2.1 Unmet Project expectations .....................................................................................177 8.6.2.2 Increased local employment, capacity building and supply demand ........................177 8.6.2.3 Loss of public access and reduced mobility through local paths ..............................177 8.6.2.4 Reduced access to grazing and pastoral land ..........................................................177 8.6.2.5 Increased presence of security personnel ................................................................177 8.6.2.6 Unplanned events: Potential workforce H&S risks ...................................................177 8.7 Occupational and Community Health and Safety ..........................................................178 8.8 Traffic and Transportation ..............................................................................................178 Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 1 Introduction Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 8 8.9 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage ................................................................................179 8.9.1 Construction Phase .......................................................................................................179 9. Summary and Next Steps ........................................................................................................180 9.1 Summary .......................................................................................................................180 9.2 Next Steps .....................................................................................................................180 Appendix A Figures ............................................................................................................................181 Figures Figure 1-1: Project Geographical Location .......................................................................................... 10 Figure 1-2: Project Site ........................................................................................................................ 11 Figure 1-3: View of the Project Site outside the NW boundary looking SE .......................................... 11 Figure 2-1: General View of the Centre of the Project Site ................................................................. 13 Figure 2-2: Grazing taking place on site ............................................................................................. 14 Figure 2-3: Previously cultivated area (outside site boundary)............................................................ 15 Figure 2-4: Irrigation ditch no longer in use ......................................................................................... 15 Figure 2-5: Culvert on irrigation ditch no longer in use ........................................................................ 16 Figure 2-6: M37 Highway Adjacent to the Site .................................................................................... 17 Figure 2-7: Site access from the M37 Highway ................................................................................... 17 Figure 2-8: Farm to the north of the Site (uninhabited at the time of site visit) .................................... 18 Figure 2-9: Farm to the south of the Site (inhabited at the time of site visit) ....................................... 19 Figure 2-10: Drainage channel (collector) on eastern boundary of site ............................................... 20 Figure 2-11: Drainage channel (collector) on western boundary of site .............................................. 21 Figure 2-12: PV Power Plant Overview ............................................................................................... 22 Figure 2-13: Typical PV Facility, using Tracking System ..................................................................... 23 Figure 2-14: PV Power Plant Layout ................................................................................................... 24 Figure 2-15: Schematic Diagram of Singleand Double-Axis Tracking Systems ................................ 25 Figure 2-16: Foundation Options ........................................................................................................ 25 Figure 2-17: String Inverter Connection Concept (right) and Exterior ................................................. 26 Figure 2-18: Major Components of a Liquid-Immersed Power Transformer ....................................... 26 Figure 2-19. Typical Substation ........................................................................................................... 27 Figure 2-20: Typical Fence and CCTV System at a UK PV Facility .................................................... 28 Figure 4-1. Approach to Baseline Characterisation ............................................................................ 48 Figure 4-2: Mitigation Hierarchy .......................................................................................................... 52 Figure 5-1: Meeting at School 26 ........................................................................................................ 61 Figure 5-2: Meeting at School 26 (2) ................................................................................................... 61 Figure 5-3: Meeting at School 23 ........................................................................................................ 62 Figure 6-1: Average minimum and maximum temperature over the year............................................ 69 Figure 6-2: Average monthly hours of sunshine over the year ............................................................ 69 Figure 6-3: Average monthly precipitation over the year (rainfall, snow) ............................................. 69 Figure 6-4: Average humidity over the year ........................................................................................ 70 Figure 6-5: Average wind speed over the year .................................................................................... 70 Figure 6-6: Zarafshan River north of the Project site .......................................................................... 73 Figure 6-7: Zarafshan River north of the Project site (2) ..................................................................... 74 Figure 6-8: Plan showing route of water pipe in dotted line (confirmed) ............................................. 77 Figure 6-9: Water pipe crossing (March 2020) .................................................................................... 77 Figure 6-10: Location of Water pipe crossing (March 2020) ............................................................... 78 Figure 6-11. Zone of Theoretical Visibility and Landscape Study Area ............................................... 80 Figure 6-12. Site Context .................................................................................................................... 81 Figure 6-13. Core Area of LCT 01 Zarafshan River ............................................................................ 83 Figure 6-14. Core Area of LCT 02 Semi Arid Plains ............................................................................ 83 Figure 6-15. LCA 03 Uzumzor and Agricultural Farmlands ................................................................. 84 Figure 6-16. LCA 04 Navoi and Environs – View of Coal Fired Power Station from the M37.............. 84 Figure 6-17. Viewpoints ...................................................................................................................... 86 Figure 6-18. Viewpoint 1 ..................................................................................................................... 89 Figure 6-19. Viewpoint 2 ..................................................................................................................... 90 Figure 6-20. Viewpoint 4 ..................................................................................................................... 90 Figure 6-21. Viewpoint 5 ..................................................................................................................... 91 Figure 6-22. Viewpoint 6 ..................................................................................................................... 91 Figure 6-23. Viewpoint 7 ..................................................................................................................... 92 Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 1 Introduction Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 9 Figure 6-24. Steppe eagle migrating over site .................................................................................... 99 Figure 6-25. Desert wheatear on site .................................................................................................100 Figure 6-26. Central Asian tortoise on site .........................................................................................102 Figure 6-27. Sunwatcher toad-headed agama on site .......................................................................103 Figure 6-28: Deggaron Mosque .........................................................................................................108 Figure 6-29: Sardoba Malik ................................................................................................................109 Figure 6-30: Rabati Malik Caravanserai entrance .............................................................................. 110 Figure 6-31: Rabati Malik Caravanserai inside .................................................................................. 110 Figure 6-32: Computer Generated Image of Rabati Malik Caravanserai ........................................... 111 Figure 6-33: Remains of Fortress at Hazora ...................................................................................... 112 Figure 6-34: OHL Tower built on the remains of the fortress wall ....................................................... 113 Figure 6-35 Location of known cultural heritage sites in the vicinity of the Project ............................. 118 Figure 6-36: Population distribution by age – Uzbekistan ..................................................................121 Figure 6-37: Ethnic structure of the Republic of Uzbekistan (2017, %) ..............................................122 Figure 6-38: View in the direction of the project site along the M37 ...................................................128 Tables Table 1-1: Preliminary ESIA Report Structure ..................................................................................... 12 Table 2-1: Key Project Components .................................................................................................... 23 Table 2-2: Transformer Electrical Characteristics ................................................................................ 27 Table 2-3: Water Requirements during Construction ........................................................................... 29 Table 2-4: Workforce Requirements .................................................................................................... 33 Table 3-1: National legislation, standards and guidelines applicable to the archaeology and cultural heritage study ..................................................................................................................................... 42 Table 3-2 International environmental and social agreements and conventions of relevance to the archaeology and cultural heritage study ............................................................................................. 44 Table 3-3: International Environmental and Social Conventions Ratified by Uzbekistan ..................... 44 Table 4-1 Assessment Criteria –Sensitivity of Receptor ...................................................................... 50 Table 4-2 Assessment Criteria – Magnitude of Impact ........................................................................ 50 Table 4-3 Assessment Criteria – Significance of Impact ..................................................................... 50 Table 5-1: Summary of Stakeholder Engagement to Date .................................................................. 55 Table 5-2: Stakeholder Engagement Programme .................................. Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 5-3: Stakeholder Engagement Programme ............................................................................... 64 Table 6-1: Record of Field Reconnaissance........................................................................................ 68 Table 6-2: Water analysis results (National Standards) ....................................................................... 75 Table 6-3. Project Landscape Character Areas ................................................................................... 82 Table 6-4. Viewpoint Descriptions ...................................................................................................... 88 Table 6-5: Globally threatened bird species ........................................................................................ 96 Table 6-6 Internationally Recognised Cultural Heritage Areas in the vicinity of the Project ................ 116 Table 6-7 Extract from the State Register sites on the National List of Immovable Property of the Intangible Cultural Heritage – Navoi Region, Karmana District & Kyzyltepa District .......................... 116 Table 6-8: Agricultural products in Navoi Region and Navoi/Karmana District, 2018 ......................... 119 Table 6-9: Education facilities in different geographies, 2019 ............................................................123 Table 6-10: Passenger transportation by transport type in Uzbekistan (per million population) .........123 Table 6-11: Life expectancy at birth, 2018 ..........................................................................................124 Table 6-12: Medical facilities in Navoi Region ....................................................................................124 Table 6-13: Proportion of population using safely managed drinking water services .........................125 Table 6-14: Reduction in farming area ...............................................................................................126 Table 6-15: Potential socio-economic receptors .................................................................................126 Table 6-16: Sensitivity Analysis ..........................................................................................................129 Table 7-1. Sensitivity of Landscape Receptors ..................................................................................133 Table 7-2. Sensitivity of Visual Receptors ..........................................................................................133 Table 7-3. Project Landscape and Visual Receptor Sensitivity ..........................................................133 Table 7-4: Sensitivity Criteria..............................................................................................................149 Table 7-5: Magnitude of Change Criteria ...........................................................................................150 Table 7-6: Potential Volume of Vehicle Movements during Construction ...........................................152 Table 7-7 Archaeology and cultural heritage sensitivity criteria ..........................................................158 Table 7-8 Sensitivity criteria for archaeology and cultural heritage receptors ....................................159 Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 16 Figure 2-5: Culvert on irrigation ditch no longer in use The proposed site for the development is located adjacent to a secondary road that connects with a national highway (M37) (Figure 2-6). The development will access the site via a short length of existing secondary road (Figure 2-7). Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 17 Figure 2-6: M37 Highway Adjacent to the Site Figure 2-7: Site access from the M37 Highway Two farms are located in the northern (Figure 2-8) and southern (Figure 2-9) boundaries of the site, and the closest identified residential areas are the village of Uzumzor (~600 inhabitants), located approximately 2.6 km east from the boundary of the site, and a small village-sized cluster (~100 inhabitants) of residential properties approximately 2.2 km south. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 18 Figure 2-8: Farm to the north of the Site (uninhabited at the time of site visit) Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 19 Figure 2-9: Farm to the south of the Site (inhabited at the time of site visit) Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 20 The natural drainage of the site is slightly inclined towards the west and is not envisaged to be modified. The site area is bordered on the west and east by two drainage channels, also referred to as collectors (Figure 2-10 and Figure 2-11). The intended purpose of these collectors is to capture and channel unused irrigation water back to the Zarafshan River. Figure 2-10: Drainage channel (collector) on eastern boundary of site Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 21 Figure 2-11: Drainage channel (collector) on western boundary of site 2.2 Overview of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Technology In general terms, solar PV technology converts the sun’s energy into electricity using a series of solar panels, inverters and transformers to connect to the electricity grid. PV cell technologies are broadly categorised as either crystalline or thin-film. Crystalline silicon (c-Si) cells provide high efficiency modules. They are sub-divided into mono-crystalline silicon (mono-c-Si) or multi-crystalline silicon (multi-c-Si). Mono-c-Si cells are generally the most efficient but are also more costly than multi-c-Si. Thin-film cells provide a cheaper alternative but are less efficient. There are three main types of thin-film cells: Cadmium Telluride (CdTe), Copper Indium (Gallium) Di-Selenide (CIGS/CIS), and Amorphous Silicon (a-Si). The performance of a PV module will decrease over time due to a process known as degradation. The degradation rate depends on the environmental conditions and the technology of the module. Modules are either mounted on fixed-angle frames or on suntracking frames. Fixed frames are simpler to install, cheaper and require less maintenance. However, tracking systems can increase yield by up to 20 %. Tracking, particularly for areas with a high direct/diffuse irradiation ratio also enables a smoother power output. Tracking frames are proposed for the Project. Inverters convert direct current (DC) electricity generated by the PV modules into AC electricity, conforming to the local grid requirements. They are arranged either in string or central configurations. Central configuration inverters are considered to be more suitable for multi-MW plants. String inverters enable individual string Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) and require less specialised maintenance skills. String configurations offer more design flexibility. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 22 PV modules and inverters are all subject to certification, predominantly by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). New standards are currently under development for evaluating PV module components and materials. The performance ratio (PR) of a well-designed PV power plant will typically be in the region of 77 % to 86 % (with an annual average PR of 82 %), degrading over the lifetime of the plant. In general, good quality PV modules may be expected to have a useful life of 25 to 30 years. The main components of the solar PV Project are: Solar PV modules: These convert solar radiation directly into electricity through the photovoltaic effect in a silent and clean process that requires no moving parts. The output from a solar PV cell is DC electricity. A PV power plant contains many cells connected together in modules which are then connected in strings to produce the required output. Inverters: These are required to convert the DC electricity to alternating current (AC) for connection to the utility grid. Many modules in series strings and parallel strings are connected to the inverters. Module mounting (or tracking) systems: These allow PV modules to be securely attached to the ground at a fixed tilt angle, or on sun-tracking frames. Step-up transformers: The output from the inverters requires a further step-up in voltage to reach the AC grid voltage level. The step-up transformer takes the output from the inverters to the required grid voltage. The grid connection interface: This is where the electricity is exported into the grid network. The substation will also have the required grid interface switchgear such as circuit breakers (CBs) and disconnects for protection and isolation of the PV power plant, as well as metering equipment. Figure 2-12 shows the key principles and associated structures of this PV facility. Figure 2-12: PV Power Plant Overview 2.3 Description of Key Design Components The 100 MWp power generation plant is designed to use solar PV technology, where solar modules/panels made from silicon material are used to convert sun rays (solar energy) into electricity. The proposed plant is a medium size utility grade grid-connected solar-PV power system consisting of Photovoltaic modules/panels, MPPT solar power inverters, power conditioning units, 220 kV step-up power transformers and grid connection equipment. The plant will feed power directly into the grid with no batteries employed. The ESIA has been undertaken assuming East-West Single Axis Tracker (+/- 55 degrees) mounting structures. Tracking systems require additional space and are technically more complex compared with fixed mounting structures and consequently, consequently assuming a tracking mounting system ensures the assessment is based on the realistic worst case. Any change to this design will therefore result in an impact that is of equal or lower magnitude than that assessed herein. The view of a typical PV facility is shown in Figure 2-13. Loop in-loop out connection to 220kV OHL Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 23 Figure 2-13: Typical PV Facility, using Tracking System Source: National Technology and Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC. (2018) Table 2-1 provides a summary of the key Project components. Such information is based on preliminary information and design provided by Nur Navoi. Table 2-1: Key Project Components Component Parameters Inverter units: 659 x SUN2000-185KTL-H1 No. PV Modules: 328,750 x bifacial modules (manufacturer and model still under discussion) Total DC kWp: TBC Total Export Act. Power (kW): 100,000 kW @ 50°C Tracker Configuration: Nclave SP160 +-55° E-W Single Axis Tracker Pitch (Centre to Centre Substructure Spacing) 8 m Site boundary area: 267 ha PV Plant area PV Plant perimeter 2.3.1 PV Power Plant Layout The proposed layout of the Project is shown in Figure 2-14. The detailed plan is also provided in Appendix A. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 24 Figure 2-14: PV Power Plant Layout 2.3.2 Photovoltaic Modules Photovoltaic (PV) cell technologies are broadly categorised as either crystalline silicon or thin film: • Crystalline Silicon (c-Si): Crystalline silicon cells provide relatively high efficiency modules. Modules are made from cells of either monocrystalline or multicrystalline silicon. Monocrystalline silicon cells are generally slightly more efficient, but are also costlier than multicrystalline. • Thin Film: Thin film modules are less efficient at peak levels than crystalline modules; however, they can provide performance advantages at varying irradiance and temperature conditions. Modules are made with a thin film deposition of a semiconductor onto a substrate. In this instance, crystalline technology has been chosen for the Project site due to the high irradiance experienced at the site and the fact that such technology is likely to deliver higher efficiency under such conditions. A tracking system involves attaching the PV modules to a table that can move in relation to the sun. This allows for optimal performance throughout the day. Tracking systems can either be singleaxis or dual-axis (Figure 2-15). Single axis systems are typically mounted on a single vertical stand and rotate around the horizontal axis which follows the sun as it moves east to west. Dual-axis systems move both around the horizontal and vertical axes, therefore typically requiring a table style mount. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 25 Single-axis tracking system Dual-axis tracking system Figure 2-15: Schematic Diagram of Singleand Double-Axis Tracking Systems 2.3.3 Mount Foundations The foundation design will comprise either galvanised driven piles, ground screw piles, or concrete foundations. These designs are illustrated in Figure 2-16. Piles are typically installed to the depth of 2.5 m to 3 m below ground, whereas concrete foundation slabs are placed directly onto the ground. The choice of one option over the others depends on the substrate characteristics (whether the ground is too soft, too rocky, contaminated or accessible by the drilling machines) and the expected wind loads in the area. The final choice of mounting structure and foundations may depend on the outcome of further geotechnical surveys and may comprise a combination of the foundation types. However, based on the findings of the ground investigation work, piled foundations are deemed appropriate. Figure 2-16: Foundation Options Source: (ILF Consulting Engineers, 2019) 2.3.4 Solar Inverter, Switchgear, and Transformers The primary function of a solar inverter is to convert the direct current (DC) produced by the PV modules into an alternating current (AC), which is suitable for use by the new substation. There are two broad classes of inverters, central inverters and string inverters. Nur Navoi will install string invertors during the construction of the Solar Project. Each inverter has a footprint of approximately 1.6 m by 2.8 m and 2.5 m tall. The layout concept and a typical centralised inverter are illustrated in Figure 2-17. The string inverter concept uses multiple inverters for multiple strings of modules, with inverter capacities in the region of approximately 15 to 30 kVA when used on large-scale PV plants. String inverters provide MPPT on a string or dual-string level with all strings being independent of each other. Single-axis tracking system Dual-axis tracking system Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 32 A written health and safety plan will be developed by the EPC Contractor for the facility using established safety procedures for power generation plants as guideline. Employees will be intimately involved with the development of the process hazard analysis and on the development of other elements of process safety management required. Access to this data and all other pertinent information will be made readily available to all employees and onsite contractors. Clear written operating procedures for safely conducting activities within the plant will be developed. This includes steps for each operating phase, operating limits, safety and health considerations and safety systems and their functions. This document will be readily accessible to employees who work on or maintain a covered process and will be reviewed as often as necessary to assure they reflect current operating practice. Safe work practice will be implemented and will provide for special circumstances such as lockout/tag out and confined space entry and training limits. 2.4.4 Infrastructure Requirements during Construction of Power Plant The Project will require additional infrastructure during construction works. It is anticipated that the following infrastructure and services will be required: • If groundwater wells are installed then water pipelines and faucets at each solar array should be provided to allow wet cleaning activities. • Temporary storage facilities for the new stocks of solar panels (for replacement purpose) and collection of damaged or broken panels on site. • Effluent and storm-water drainage. • Sanitation and sewerage disposal. • On-site electricity supply (by means of diesel generator). • Road access. • Medical facilities on-site. 2.4.5 Operational Phase 2.4.5.1 General Plant Maintenance To maintain the quality of the working environment, plant management will ensure good housekeeping and sanitation around the plant. Proper maintenance and servicing of all plant auxiliaries at all times will be supported with proper process documentation and data analysis on plant performance. Solar array maintenance will involve removing overgrown grasses and shrubs within the solar array area that pose a risk of shading parts of the facilities. 2.4.6 Decommissioning Phase The Project is expected to have an economic useful lifespan of approximately 25 years and the power plant infrastructure would either be decommissioned, extended or upgraded (if a new license is granted) once it has reached the end of its economic life. Upgrading the Project would consist of replacing old PV modules for new ones, increasing the total peak power of the plant (a process called “repowering”) or increasing the power of the plant by adding new elements such as trackers, PV modules or transformers. If the Project is to be decommissioned, then the site will be returned to close to its original state. The components of a PV plant have an intrinsic value either for re-use or recycling. This value will cover the cost of decommissioning the plant and rehabilitating the site. The following decommissioning activities will form part of the Project scope: site preparation and temporary storage; transportation and deposition of waste material. Essentially decommissioning will follow the construction process but in reverse. The decommissioning or upgrading of the infrastructure has not been discussed in this ESIA report but will be addressed before decommissioning is required. If requested, a separate ESIA will be conducted prior to the time of decommissioning. In addition, any decommissioning activities and related plans will comply with the applicable national regulation. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 33 2.4.6.1 Site Preparation and Temporary Storage Site preparation activities will include confirming the integrity of the access to the site to accommodate the required decommissioning equipment, mobilization of decommissioning equipment, planning for temporary and or permanent storage of debris. 2.4.6.2 Disassemble and or Replace Existing Components The components would be disassembled, and reused and recycled (where possible), or disposed of in accordance with regulatory requirements. This would be done by sorting all materials, such that they are categorized into re-usable items and debris items. All re-usable items shall be re-packaged into containers and taken to the market areas where they can be sold; while debris will be packaged into two types, one for hazardous materials and the other for regular debris. Hazardous wastes will be disposed of in accordance with environmental guidelines required by the Khokimiyat; while the non-hazardous, like waste metals or plastics, will be delivered to respective recycling plants. 2.4.6.3 Site Remediation Once decommissioning is completed, all equipment and debris shall be removed from the site and the affected area will be rehabilitated where practical and reasonable, back to the normal state of the environment. Site remediation methodology is included in the project environment management plan proposed for the development. The plan provides measures to mitigate/manage the potential impacts expected during the construction phase. 2.5 Project Staffing The number of local people that are predicted to be employed during construction varies depending on the EPC Contractor however it is expected to reach a peak of 900 personnel. This includes technicians and low-skilled personnel (approximately 600) who will receive various levels of training before starting work on the project. This includes basic training on HSE, labour management and, where required for specific job profiles, vocational training. The construction workforce is expected to consist of a combination of nationals and expatriate workers, with the majority being locals preferentially sourced from the surrounding towns and villages. The number of jobs to be made available to local women during construction has not yet been confirmed. The total number of the local workforce is expected to increase as site preparation activities commence. After the peak level has been reached, the local workforce will gradually be reduced leading up to the start of operations. The individuals employed during the construction stage, and their household members, will benefit from increased income that is likely to increase their overall standard of living, access to healthcare and educational resources, and reduce their socio-economic vulnerability. The project represents an opportunity for young people to increase their skills through vocational training that will be of use to them after their involvement in this project is completed. Individuals who receive such training should be able to seek alternative work within the growing construction sector in the future. The number of local people that are to be employed by Nur Navoi during operation is expected to comprise of Uzbek nationals (men and women will be able to apply for these positions), in addition to personnel provided through local subcontractors to provide a range of supporting services, including security. The following workforce requirements are anticipated for the project: Table 2-4: Workforce Requirements Dept. Position Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Home Office Domestic Project Management 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 34 Dept. Position Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Design Management 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Procurement Centre 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Surveillance Dept. 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Integrated Logistic Dept 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Site Project Management Project Manager 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Project Chief Engineer 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Site Project Commercial and Contract Department Commercial Manager 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Site Project Administrative Department Admin. Manager 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 HR Engineer 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Secretary(local) 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Driver (local) 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 Site Project Integrated Logistics Department Integrated Logistics Manager 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Procurement Engineer 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Site Project HSE Department HSE Manager 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Site Project QA/QC Department QA&QC Manager 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Site Project Financial Department Financial Manager 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Project Construction Department Engineering Manager 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Civil Manager 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Civil Engineer (China) 1 1 2 3 3 3 3 3 2 1 1 Civil Engineer (local) 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Elec. Manager 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Elec. Engineer (China) 1 1 1 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 Elec. Engineer(local) 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Subcontractor Civil construction 50 50 50 90 156 226 460 581 581 455 165 50 Electric construction 3 3 20 120 250 250 120 65 20 Total subcontractor 50 50 50 93 159 246 580 831 831 575 230 70 CONTRACTOR Site staff Site Management staff 14 17 19 21 22 30 30 40 40 22 21 21 Site Total Site Total 83 89 93 140 208 305 639 900 900 624 277 117 Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 35 2.6 Project Alternatives The section below sets out the main alternatives considered during the site selection process and demonstrates the reasoning for the decision to take this Project site forward as the preferred development option. 2.6.1 Uzbekistan’s Green Economy Strategy Uzbekistan’s strategy for transition to a green economy in the period of 2019-2030 was approved by the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated 04.10.2019 No. PP-4477 and was adopted to ensure fulfilment of obligations under the Paris Agreement on climate change, as well as the implementation of the Action Strategy for five priority areas of development of the Republic of Uzbekistan in 2017-2021. Priority areas envisage the implementation of measures in various sectors of economy, including electricity, heat, oil and gas, renewable energy, construction and transportation. 2.6.2 Without the Project Uzbekistan is one of the few countries which are fully self-sufficient in energy resources. It is the second largest of the Caspian gas producers (after Turkmenistan) and its abundant natural gas resources are used both for domestic consumption and export. 2 Oil and natural gas comprise 97% of the country's energy balance. Primary energy shares consist of 86.3% gas, 1.9% hydro, 2.5% coal and peat, and 9.3% crude oil. Uzbekistan is the largest electricity producer in Central Asia. Total national electricity capacity is 12.6 GW (as of 2007), of which 88.5% is provided by thermal power plants and 11.5% by hydropower plants. 100% of the population have access to electricity, but electrical supply to rural areas is unreliable and of low quality. There are often power blackouts that last many hours per day. Renovating the power transmission networks is one of the energy sectors priorities. A ‘without project alternative’ would place ongoing reliance on generating additional power from fossil fuel sources and would fail to address Uzbekistan’s Green Economy Strategy. A ‘With Project Alternative’ is therefore recommended. 2.6.3 Site Selection In identifying a suitable site for solar energy developments, various elements need to be considered. These include factors such as: • Solar resource. • Environmental designations. • Residential properties. • Potential access. • Grid connection. The study has evaluated various project alternatives in terms of site for the Project, technology, ‘without the project scenario’ and grid connection options. The study found that although the ‘without solar farm’ alternative would maintain the status quo, which means that the current use of the site (livestock grazing) continues. It should be noted that the site was presented to potential bidders by the Government of Uzbekistan in cooperation with IFC and as a result there was no opportunity for Nur Navoi to influence site selection. 2.6.4 Review of Site Considerations The project site alternatives were screened by IFC based on availability of suitable land, access to the grid network, solar irradiation and project appraisal following the Lenders’ requirements regarding environmental and social aspects. Based on these criteria, it is considered that the site has the following strengths: • The site guarantees excellent solar irradiation. 2 IEA (2009): World Energy Outlook. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 2 Project Description Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 36 • Availability of suitable land (not ecologically sensitive areas, no cultural heritage and archaeological feature, relatively flat, no flood risk, simple access and the willingness of the landowner to lease the land) and minimisation of impacts. • In terms of technology, the conditions of the site are optimal for solar PV and unfavourable for other renewable technologies. The site does not possess sufficient wind resource and is not characterised by hydro or geothermal potential. Thermal power could potentially be the only technically suitable alternative, but its carbon footprint and the geographical location would make it both environmentally and economically disadvantageous. Secondly there is an operational coal fired power station, approximately 28km east of the Project, serving Navoi. A ‘Solar PV’ technology option is therefore the most suitable for the site. • For the grid connection, a number of options were considered. The preferred option will entail direct connection to the 220 kV line adjacent to the PV site. Therefore, although the site was not subjected to an assessment of alternatives process by Nur Navoi, it is considered that the site selection process carried out by IFC was robust and the site location meets the above criteria. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 3 Legal and Policy Framework Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 37 3. Legal and Policy Framework 3.1 Uzbekistan’s Green Economy Strategy Uzbekistan’s strategy for transition to a green economy in the period of 2019-2030 was approved by the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated 04.10.2019 No. PP-4477 (the "Resolution"). This Resolution was adopted to ensure fulfilment of obligations under the Paris Agreement on climate change signed by Uzbekistan on April 19, 2017, as well as the implementation of the Action Strategy for five priority areas of development of the Republic of Uzbekistan in 2017-2021. The Resolution declares that the Strategy should bring the following results by 2030: • Reduction of emissions of greenhouse gas per unit of GDP by 10 per cent of the 2010 level; • Twofold increase of energy efficiency indicators and a decrease in the carbon intensity of GDP; • Further development of renewable energy sources, with coverage of more than 25 per cent of the total volume of electricity generation; • Increase of the energy efficiency of industrial enterprises by at least 20 per cent; • Development of electrical vehicles; • Introduction of drip irrigation technology into an area up to 1M hectares and increasing the crops yield cultivated on them by 20-40 per cent; • Achieving a neutral balance in the degradation of land; and • Increasing the average productivity of the production of the main types of agricultural food products by 20-25 per cent. In addition, the Resolution identifies the priority areas in Uzbekistan's strategy for transition to a green economy: • Improvement of energy efficiency in the basic sectors of the economy; • Diversification of energy consumption and development of the use of renewable energy sources; • Adaptation and mitigation of the effects of climate change, increase in the efficiency of natural resources and preservation of natural ecosystems; • Development of financial and non-financial support mechanisms for the green economy. Priority areas envisage the implementation of measures in various sectors of economy, including electricity, heat, oil and gas, renewable energy, construction, transportation and many more. 3.2 Institutional framework The Constitution and legislative norms and rules of the Republic of Uzbekistan determine the legislative, state and executive authority’s environmental and social responsibilities, and also the responsibilities of private developers. The Preamble of the Constitution recognises the “priority of the generally accepted norms of the international law”. 3 It is therefore considered that international conventions and ratifications will prevail over national legislation whenever the former are more stringent. The Supreme Executive body responsible for nature protection in the Uzbekistan is the State Committee for Nature Protection (SCNP), subordinated and accountable to Oliy Majlis (Parliament). It defines state policy, takes legislative acts, coordinates and manages the activity of ministries and agencies regarding E&S issues. The Cabinet of Ministers is the Executive body responsible for the implementation of state nature protection policy, coordinate development and realization of state programs of socio-economic development. The Cabinet controls their execution and is responsible for registration and evaluation of nature resources. Obligations of regions regarding environmental protection are put to the Soviets of National Deputies, headed by the Leader of administration (khokims). Regional and local government are responsible for registering and evaluating the condition of nature resources, ecologically harmful facilities and are responsible for control, nature protection and usage of nature resources. Execution of nature protective measures, control function and responsibility regarding nature protection rests on a number of ministries and agencies. Responsibilities of these bodies include provision of 3 Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan http://constitution.uz/en/clause/index (20/02/2020) Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 3 Legal and Policy Framework Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 38 stable system of state service, development and realization of specialized programs, strategies and plans of actions and sustainable nature management. Regional departments and agencies are generally lower executive bodies of the SCNP and other responsible ministries on regional and district levels. Organizations at the regional level have the same structure as the republican level. Public meetings (makhalla) are an independent mechanism of self-government, which carries out general initiatives and measures, including those connected with ecology, directly in villages, regions, districts and cities. See more information on makhallas below in Section 3.4. 3.3 National Environmental and Social Legislation 3.3.1 Overview Within the limits of established state policy under the direction of the President and Cabinet of Ministers (CM) in the Uzbekistan, attention is paid to the execution of accepted ecological obligations. Nature conservation policy of Uzbekistan and implemented measures related to environmental protection and nature management are based on the following principles: • integration of economic and ecological policy for conservation and rehabilitation of the environment as a necessary condition for increasing the population’s standard of living; • Transition from protection of some individual environmental elements to a more general and complex protection of ecosystems; • Placing a responsibility on all members of society for environmental protection, conservation of biodiversity and improvement of the conditions of the general population. National environmental legislation is based on the regulations of the Constitution of Uzbekistan, which was accepted on December 8, 1992, amended in accordance with the Law of Uzbekistan dated 28.12.1993, No. 989-XII, and the Law of Uzbekistan dated 24.04.2003 No. 470-II. There is a requirement that Government, departments, public officers, social associations, and citizens act in accordance with the relevant Constitution and laws. (Article 15). None of the regulations of Constitution can be interpreted to the prejudice of rights and interests of Uzbekistan. None of the laws or other normative-legal acts can contradict norms and principles of the Constitution (Article 16). In accordance with the Constitution of Uzbekistan, land, its resources, flora and fauna, and other natural resources are national wealth and are subjected to rational usage and protected by government. Article 55 of the Constitution of the Uzbekistan states, “... land, its resources, flora and fauna and also other nature resources are the national wealth and should be rationally used and protected by state”. On the basis of the Constitution, the laws are taken by Oliy Majlis (OM), signed by the President of the Uzbekistan and have the highest legal power. The President of the Uzbekistan, on the basis and in pursuance of execution of the Constitution and laws of the Uzbekistan, issues orders, statements and decrees, having compulsory power on the whole territory of the Uzbekistan (Article 94). The Cabinet of Ministers (CM), in accordance with acting legislation, issues statements and decrees which are compulsory for the whole territory of Uzbekistan. The Khokim takes decisions which are compulsory for all ventures, establishments, associations, public officers and citizens on corresponding territory (Article 104). The SCNP of the Uzbekistan is subordinated to OM and has responsibility for ministries, state committees, establishments and organizations for the use and protection of lands, subsoils, water, forests, flora and fauna, and air. The fundamental legislative act regulating nature conservation is the Law “On nature protection” No. 754-XII dated December 9, 1992 (last revision was made by Law of Uzbekistan No.59 dated 10.10.2006). This Law states legal, economic and organizational bases for keeping conditions of environment, rational usage of nature complexes. It has the aim to provide balanced harmonic development of relations between humans and nature, protection of ecological systems, nature complexes and separate objects, and guarantee rights of citizens for favourable environment. The influence of economic activity on nature environment is limited by norms and quality standards established for various components of the natural environment. The aim is to guarantee ecological safety of population, production and protection of nature resources. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 3 Legal and Policy Framework Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 39 State control of environmental protection is carried out by public authorities and regulatory bodies and departments/agencies specifically responsible for nature protection. Authorized departments responsible for nature protection are: • State Committee for Nature Protection of Uzbekistan; • Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan; • Agency for control of safe industry works and mines inspectorate; • Ministry of Internal Affairs of Uzbekistan; • Ministry of Agriculture and water resources of Uzbekistan; • State Committee for land resources of Uzbekistan. Payments for special nature management and pollution of environment consists of taxes and also, compensation payments for pollution of the environment (emissions, discharge of contaminants and wastes disposal), payments for protection and restoration of nature resources. In addition to the Law “On nature protection” some other laws, regulating different areas of management and environmental protection have been developed such as: 1. “On water and water usage” No. 837-XII dt May 6, 1993 (last revision was made by Law of Uzbekistan No. 240 dt 25.12.2009). 2. “On protection of atmospheric air” No. 353-I dt. December 27, 1996 (last revision was made by Law of Uzbekistan No.59 dt. 10.10.2006). 3. “On protection and usage of flora” No. 543-I dt. December 26, 1997 (last revision was made by Law of Uzbekistan No. 82-II dt. 26.05.2000). 4. “On protection and usage of fauna” No. 545-I dt. December 26, 1997 (last revision was made by Law of Uzbekistan No.59 dt. 10.10.2006). 5. “On wastes” No. 362-II dt. April 5, 2002. 6. “On order of promulgation of a Land Code of Uzbekistan” No. 598-I dt. April 30, 1998. (last revision was made by Law of Uzbekistan No.714-II dt. 03.12.2004). 7. “On state land cadastre” No. 666-I dt. August 28, 1998 (last revision was made by Law of Uzbekistan No. 621-II dt. 30.04.2004). 8. “On woods” No. 770-I dt. April 15, 1999 (last revision was made by Law of Uzbekistan No.238 dt. 22.12.2009). 9. “On protected nature territories” No. 710-II dt. December 3, 2004. 10. Law of Uzbekistan “On subsoils” is approved by Law of Uzbekistan No.444-II dt. 13.12.2002г. (last revision was made by Law of Uzbekistan No.133 dt. 18.12.2007.) 11. Law of Uzbekistan “On EIA” No. 73-II dt. May 25, 2000. As a whole, ecological legislation of the Uzbekistan covers a wide spectrum of issues and includes regulations including: • Protection of the environment and its main components; • Protection of ecosystems and regulation of usage of nature resources; • Evaluation of influence on environment and ecological expertise; • Regulation of compensations for damage made to environment (including economical and administrative aspects); • Regulation of property rights for nature resources. The legislation of Uzbekistan prioritises a number of international agreements above the national legislation. For example, Article 53 of Law of Uzbekistan “On nature protection” requires that “in cases, when international agreement, concluded by Uzbekistan, states rules other than that contained in the present Law or other legislative act of Uzbekistan on nature protection, the rules of international agreement are applied, excluding cases when legislation of Uzbekistan established more strict requirements”. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 3 Legal and Policy Framework Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 40 3.3.2 Requirements of the National EIA Procedure There are specific requirements as to the content, development procedure and examination of Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) documents. These are governed by the following legislative acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan: 1) Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan No 754-XII dated 09.12.1992 “On Environment Protection”; 2) Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan No 73-II dated 25.05.2000 “On Environmental Impact Audit”; 3) Regulation “On State Ecological Expertise in the Republic of Uzbekistan”, approved by the Decree of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan No 491 dated 31.12.2001. A series of EIA documents consisting of the following stages are required to be developed for designed facilities in accordance with the given requirements: • DEIA - Draft Environmental Impact Assessment, which shall be developed in the conception stage of planned or anticipated economic or other activity prior to the beginning of project financing (1st stage of EIA); • EIA - Environmental Impact Assessment, which shall be developed if, based on the results of DEIA State Environmental Expertise (SEE), it was ascertained that additional surveys, on-site investigations, special analyses, simulation experiments and development of well-founded environmental actions are required (2nd stage of EIA). Necessity of EIA development shall be defined by State Committee on Nature Protection of the Republic of Uzbekistan based on the results of DEIA state environmental expertise. • EEA - Ecological Effect Assessment, which shall be developed prior to commissioning of the project and shall be final stage of EIA procedure for designed facilities (3rd stage of EIA). The Project is required to take all reasonable measures in accordance with these laws and standards in order to minimize any potential violations of general balance of environment, including, but not limited to, land surface, subsoils, air, lakes, rivers, flora and fauna, crops and other natural resources. The hierarchy of protection is determined in the following order: life protection, environmental protection and property protection. 3.3.3 National Social Legislation The findings regarding the key legislation in relation to social matters were based on a revision of publicly available legislation translated into English. The key findings are summarised below: The Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in particular: • Art. 105. Recognises makhallas as self-governing bodies whose Chairmen and advisers are elected by citizens for terms of two and a half years. 4 This is relevant because this type of organisation is an important channel for the decision-making process of local communities. Makhallas carry out general initiatives and measures, including those connected with ecology, directly in villages, regions, districts and cities. The main principles of makhalla are democracy, publicity, social justice, humanism and mutual aid. A makhalla is responsible for taking decisions regarding problems of local importance, including issues of improving and development of infrastructure, arrangement of khashars (voluntary unpaid work on Sunday) and provision of social aid to low-income families, among others. The Labour Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan of April 1,1996 (as amended on December 22, 2010); in particular: • Chapter VI. Employment contract - Articles 4 and 72 to 76 determine the content, form and term of the employment contract, the limitation of rights of the employer to enter into fixed-term employment contract, and the ratio of legal and contractual regulation of labour relations. This is relevant because there is no specific requirement to provide workers with documented information that is clear and understandable, regarding their rights, including their rights related 4 Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan http://constitution.uz/en/clause/index (20/02/2020) Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 3 Legal and Policy Framework Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 41 to hours of work, wages, overtime, compensation, and benefits upon beginning the working relationship and when any material changes occur. • Article 77 determines the age at which employment is permitted (i.e. 16 years old). • Article 239 establishes that all persons under the age of 18 years shall be employed only after undergoing a preliminary medical examination and further until reaching the age of 18 are subject to mandatory annual medical examination. • Article 7 prohibits forced labour, understood as work performed under threat of punishment (including as a means of labour discipline). • Articles 211 and 212 establish requirements on labour protection, and the duties of the employee to comply with the norms, rules and regulations on labour and protection. The employee is obliged to comply with the norms, rules and regulations on labour protection, as well as the administration of the order of safe operation, use the obtained personal protective equipment, and immediately notify their supervisor (foreman, master, chief of a site, and others) if any accidents or situations that create a direct threat to human life and health occur. Article 213 establishes the right of the worker to the information on occupational health and safety (OHS). At the conclusion of the employment contract and the transfer to another job worker shall be informed by the employer about working conditions, including the presence of risk occupational and other diseases due to him in connection with these benefits and compensation, as well as personal protective equipment. The employer must also inform employees or their representatives about the state of OHS in specific workplaces and production. 3.3.4 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Legislative and Policy Context Standards and legislation applicable to archaeology and cultural heritage are divided into two subsections, namely: • National: Uzbek legislative and regulatory framework, and international protocols/agreements/ treaties to which Uzbekistan is party. • International: International policies, standards and guidelines including the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards and Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Guidelines, and Good International Industry Practice (GIIP). 3.3.4.1 Uzbek Legislative Context The principal legislation applicable to the archaeology and cultural heritage study comprise the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan 5 , the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan 6 , Law No. ZRU-229 “On protection and use of the objects of archaeological heritage” (13 October 2009) 7 , Law No. 269-II “On the Protection and Use of Cultural Heritage Sites (30 August 2001, as amended) 8 , Presidential Decree No. R-5181 “On improving the protection and use of objects of tangible cultural and archaeological heritage” (16 January 2018) 9 and Presidential Decree no. PP-4068 “Regarding the strengthening of the protection, management and enhancement of tangible and intangible cultural heritage” (19 December 2018) 10 . A summary of the applicable legislation that will be considered during the ESIA process is presented in Table 3-1. 5 Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan (2017). Available at: http://www.gov.uz/en/constitution/ 6 Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan of September 22, 1994 No. 2012-XII (as amended on 03-12-2019) Available at: https://www.lex.uz/acts/111457 7 Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated 13 October 2009 No. ZRU-229 “On protection and use of the objects of archaeological heritage”. Available at https://lex.uz/docs/1526179 8 Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated August 30, 2001 No. 269-II “On the Protection and Use of Cultural Heritage Sites”. Available at: https://www.lex.uz/acts/10375#1526009 9 Presidential Decree No. R-5181 of 16 January 2018 “On improving the protection and use of objects of tangible cultural and archaeological heritage”. Available at: https://www.lex.uz/docs/3506339 10 Presidential Decree No. PP-4068 of 19 December 2018 “Regarding the strengthening of the protection, management and enhancement of tangible and intangible cultural heritage”. Available at: https://lex.uz/ru/docs/4113474 Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 4 Environmental and Social Assessment Methodology Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 48 4. Environmental and Social Assessment Methodology An initial assessment of impacts was carried as part of the Preliminary ESIA. A number of criteria were used to determine whether or not a potential impact of the Project could be considered ‘significant’. These are outlined with reference to specific environmental and social issues in the subsequent topic chapters of this Preliminary ESIA Report. Wherever possible, a quantitative assessment of the impacts was undertaken. Where this was not possible, a qualitative assessment of impacts was carried out, based on existing information available for the site and the surrounding study area, and experience with other solar PV developments. Where relevant, the anticipated impact was compared against appropriate legal requirements and standards. Where no such standards exist, assessment methods involving interpretation and the application of professional judgement were employed. The assessment of significance in all cases accounted for the impact’s deviation from the established baseline conditions and the sensitivity of the environment. The impact assessment will be developed further as part of ongoing ESIA studies being carried out at the pre-construction phase. 4.1 Baseline Obtaining accurate and reliable baseline data within the Project Area of Influence is an essential component of the ESIA process, to provide a reference point against which potential impacts can be assessed and monitored. The approach to baseline characterisation is illustrated in Figure 4-1. Figure 4-1. Approach to Baseline Characterisation 4.1.1 Project Area of Influence and Study Area The initial step in the baseline characterisation is the definition of the Project Area of Influence (AoI) and the Study Area. The AoI (based on the definition in IFC PS1) adopted by the Project is: • The area likely to be affected by: Baseline characterisation Applicable standards Project Area of Influence and Study Area Primary data collection and analysis Secondary data evaluation and gap analysis Monitoring data collection and analysis Receptor identification and sensitivity assessment Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 4 Environmental and Social Assessment Methodology Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 49 ─ Project activities and facilities that are directly owned, operated, or managed (including by contractors) by the Project Proponent and that are a component of the Project; ─ Impacts from unplanned but predictable developments caused by the Project that may occur later or at a different location; or ─ Indirect Project impacts on biodiversity or on ecosystem services upon which ‘Affected Communities’ 17 livelihoods are dependent. • Associated facilities, which are facilities that are not funded as part of the Project and that would not have been expanded if the Project did not exist and without which the Project would not be viable. It is anticipated there will not be any associated facilities for the Project; and • Cumulative impacts that result from the incremental impact, on areas or resources used or directly impacted by the Project, from other existing, planned or reasonably defined developments at the time the risks and impacts identification process is conducted. Using this definition of the Project components an Area of Influence was prepared using the following criteria: • Physical footprint of the Project, overhead lines and substation. • Area where noise effects may be experienced. • Area local to the Project that may be used as a resting/stopover point for migrating birds. This has been deemed to represent the area bounded by the two collectors to the west and east, the Highway to the south and the Zarafshan River to the north. • Area within the zone of theoretical visibility of the solar panels. • Area of 100 m either side of roads and access tracks. • Area of 100 m either side of overhead lines. A series of AOI maps were prepared and have been used to identify survey areas, stakeholders and project affected peoples (PAPs) who would be targeted as part of the ESIA process. The AOI was then used to guide the implementation of the ESIA study. The term PAP is broadly defined as persons affected by land acquisition, relocation, or loss of incomes associated with change in land use due to a project. . 4.1.2 Data Collection and Baseline Characterisation The baseline characterisation of the physical, biological, and social environment is based on secondary (desktop research) data, supplemented by primary (field surveys) data where necessary. A desktop study was undertaken to collate available baseline data from published sources. The information was evaluated by the technical study teams and data gaps were identified. The desktop study was supplemented by field surveys undertaken in March 2020 at selected locations within the AoI. Field surveys were undertaken for the following ESIA topics: soil and ground conditions, surface water, terrestrial ecology, cultural heritage, traffic, landscape and visual, and social (including meetings with stakeholders). Geographic information system (GIS) data have been developed to support baseline characterisation (and impact assessment), incorporating remotely sensed data (satellite imagery and aerial photography), topographical maps, engineering drawings, and Geographical Positioning System (GPS) data linked to information collected in the field (e.g. photographs and field notes). Primary and secondary baseline data were evaluated by the technical subject matter experts. 17 Local communities who are directly impacted by the Project Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 4 Environmental and Social Assessment Methodology Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 50 4.2 Impact Assessment One of the key requirements of ESIA is to assess likely significant effects of the development on the environment, which should cover the direct effects and any indirect, secondary, cumulative, short, medium and long-term permanent and temporary, positive and negative effects of the development. Short-term effects are those considered to extend over a short period. In the context of this type of development, short-term relates typically to the construction and decommissioning periods. Effects lasting less than the life of the Project are considered to be medium-term whilst those over or exceeding the life of the Project are considered long term. Reversibility of effect; i.e. whether the effects will be reversible either wholly, or in part, in the short to medium term, are also considered where relevant. The sensitivity of the receptor depends upon the relative importance of existing environmental features on or in the vicinity of the site or the sensitivity of receptors which have the potential to be affected by the Project. The criteria for determining sensitivity or importance are based on existing guidance, legislation, statutory designation and / or professional judgement. Following the assessment of receptor sensitivity, the potential impact on a receptor and the predicted magnitude of that change or impact was identified (i.e. the scale or degree to which the environment is affected from the existing situation). An example of the framework used to assess sensitivity and magnitude is given in Table 4-1 and Table 4-2 below. However, it should be borne in mind that the criteria used will very much depend on the specific environmental aspect being considered. Table 4-1 Assessment Criteria –Sensitivity of Receptor Magnitude of Change / Impact Criteria High Site or species subject to international or national protection. Medium Site or species subject to regional or local protection. Low Site or species subject to no specific protection measures. Negligible Site or habitat already significantly degraded. Table 4-2 Assessment Criteria – Magnitude of Impact Magnitude of Change / Impact Criteria High Fundamental change to the specific environmental conditions assessed resulting in temporary (long term) or permanent change. Medium Detectable change to the specific environmental conditions assessed resulting in nonfundamental temporary or permanent change. Low Detectable but minor change to the specific environmental conditions assessed. Negligible No perceptible change to the specific environmental conditions assessed. The above tables will be used to determine the significance of impact. Significance is a function of the impact magnitude and sensitivity of the receptor. It is proposed to use the following matrix to determine sensitivity. It is noted that impact magnitude and receptor sensitivity will be defined qualitatively or quantitatively, depending on the methodology and nuances of the individual technical assessment topics. The methodology for determining magnitude and sensitivity will be clearly defined in the respective technical chapter. Table 4-3 Assessment Criteria – Significance of Impact Magnitude of Change / Impact High Medium Low Negligible High Major Major Moderate Low Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 4 Environmental and Social Assessment Methodology Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 51 Magnitude of Change / Impact High Medium Low Negligible Medium Major Moderate Low Low Low Moderate Low Low Negligible Negligible Low Low Negligible Negligible 4.2.1 Assessment of Cumulative Impacts Cumulative impacts are an important issue to be considered for the Project. Cumulative impacts are those effects that may result from the combination of past, present or future actions of existing or planned activities. While a single activity may itself result in an insignificant impact, it may, when combined with other impacts (significant or insignificant) in the same geographical area and occurring at the same time, result in a cumulative impact that is significant. Good practice requires that, at a minimum, project sponsors assess during the ESIA process whether their development may contribute to cumulative impacts and/or may be at risk from cumulative effects on valued environmental and social components they depend on. This will be done through a rapid cumulative impact assessment during the ESIA process and will follow of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) EIA guidance, the Guidelines for the Assessment of Cumulative Impacts prepared for the European Commission and guidelines under IFC PS1 18 . The rapid cumulative impact assessment involves a combination of desk-based research and engagement with stakeholders. The identification and management of cumulative impacts are limited to those effects generally recognized as important on the basis of scientific concerns and/ or concerns of affected communities. 4.2.2 Mitigation Design When developing a project, and in particular when it comes to recommending mitigation which would involve changes to the project design – either physically or operationally – it is important to ensure that both the environmental and technical teams work closely together to develop solutions that will work in practise. AECOM ensured the ESIA process effectively interacts with other pre-application project activities, to generate an improved development proposal, and better environmental outcomes that otherwise would not have been achieved. 19 When considering the level of mitigation required the objective is to reduce the impact to a level which is deemed not significant. If there are specific project parameters that must be adhered to then these have been defined by the Client so that mitigation is developed in line with an achievable project concept. Nevertheless, if there are opportunities to implement more robust mitigation measures which would to deliver a better environmental outcome without impacting the viability of the project then these have been identified. All mitigation measures will be guided by the mitigation hierarchy (Figure 4-2); a systematic approach to addressing environmental impact and its potential compensation. However, it should be noted that the ESIA Report contains an initial assessment of impacts based on the limited amount of data currently available. This assessment will be expanded upon as part of the ongoing ESIA process. Nevertheless, the key principles are: • Identify the impact • Avoid the impact • Minimise the impact through appropriate mitigation measures. Mitigation can be achieved through project design or through on-site operational measures. 18 IFC and ESSA Technologies Ltd (2013). Good Practice Handbook: Cumulative Impact Assessment and Management: Guidance for the Private Sector in Emerging Markets. 19 Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (2015). Environmental Impact Assessment Guide to Shaping Quality Development November 2015. http://www.lda-design.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IEMA-Guide-to-ShapingQuality-Development.pdf Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 4 Environmental and Social Assessment Methodology Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 52 • Compensate for the impact by offsetting residual, unavoidable impacts primarily through onor off-site restoration and improvement works. When implementing offsetting and compensation measures, the minimum objective should be no net loss or reduction in environmental quality. Mitigation can be carried out by: • Structural measures, such as design or location changes, engineering modifications and landscape or site treatment; and • Non-structural measures, such as economic incentives, legal, institutional and policy instruments, provision of community services and training and capacity building. Structural measures are well established for large scale projects, such as energy generation, dams, roads, and oil and gas exploration and development. However, these will be applied with regard to the nature and severity of environmental impacts; for example, taking account of nearby protected areas, patterns of wildlife mitigation or constraints imposed by natural hazards. Some examples would include changes to track layout, module footprint, method of watercourse crossings or location of access point. Non-structural measures are used increasingly. They can be applied to reinforce or supplement structural measures or to address specific impacts. For example, many types of social, community and health impacts are addressed by non-structural measures and their use is becoming broader. A good example of this would be the requirement to develop a community benefits package The key steps in the mitigation hierarchy as described below. Reduce impacts at source (Impact avoidance). This should be applied at an early stage of project planning. It can be achieved by: • not undertaking certain projects or elements that could result in adverse impacts; • avoiding areas that are environmentally sensitive; and • putting in place preventative measures to stop adverse impacts from occurring, for example, installing a free span bridge crossing rather than a pipe culvert to cross a watercourse. Mitigate (Impact minimisation). This step is usually taken during impact identification and prediction to limit or reduce the degree, extent, magnitude, or duration of adverse impacts. It can be achieved by: • Scaling down the proposal i.e. reducing overall installed capacity; • Redesigning elements of the project; and • taking supplementary measures to manage the impacts, for example, installing bird diverters on overhead transmission lines. Rehabilitation. This step is applied to mitigate unavoidable residual adverse impacts. It can be achieved by: • Rehabilitation of the affected site or environment, for example, by habitat enhancement; • Restoration of the affected site or environment to its previous state or better. Impact compensation and off-site enhancement. Both methods involve the principle of ensuring no net-impact by providing a positive impact of the same magnitude as the negative impact from the project. • Provision of replacement land at an alternative location to compensate for loss of farmland (i.e. in-kind); Figure 4-2: Mitigation Hierarchy Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 4 Environmental and Social Assessment Methodology Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 53 • Compensation equal to the lost revenue experienced as a result of the project; • Replacement of the same resource values at another location, for example, by habitat improvement to provide an equivalent area to that lost. Mitigation and monitoring measures identified within the ESIA process will be carried forward and further developed within the Project’s Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) and associated sub-plans. 4.2.3 Assessment of Residual Impacts Following the identification of mitigation measures to address significant adverse effects, an assessment of the significance of any residual effects (i.e. those remaining after mitigation) will be completed. Where significant residual impacts remain, consideration has been given to offsetting or compensating for residual impacts. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 5 Stakeholder Engagement Programme Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 54 5. Stakeholder Engagement Programme As part of the ESIA study, AECOM has carried out a stakeholder engagement programme which is documented in more detail in the Stakeholder Engagement Plan. The programme of engagement activities presented in Table 5-1 was focused on engagement activities Nur Navoi are completing during the EIA and ESIA phases of the planned Project. During these activities, stakeholders expressed concerns and asked questions about what happens during and after the construction and operations activities. The programme will be updated following each formal engagement activity undertaken. The aim of these activities was to: • Build and maintain stakeholder relationships; • Gather information on the local environmental and social issues; • Continue to disclose Project information (including any access restrictions, employment and procurement opportunities, and community health and safety issues); • Monitor and evaluate stakeholder engagement; • Provide stakeholders the opportunity to provide feedback to Nur Navoi; and • Manage grievances through the Grievance Mechanism. Brief information on the different communication methods for carrying out stakeholder engagement is presented in Section Error! Reference source not found.. This SEP (and the engagement programme) will be updated with the Project moving to the construction stage, as well as upon commencing the operations. 5.1 Previous Stakeholder Engagement Activities: Scoping and ESIA Phases The first official round of stakeholder engagement activities (from an E&S perspective) took place in Navoi (city) and in Uzumzor on the 5th and 6th of March 2019. Further stakeholder engagement took place in March 2020 as part of the Preliminary ESIA phase. The stakeholders identified and relevant information about the outcomes of the meetings are described below. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 5 Stakeholder Engagement Programme Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 55 Table 5-1: Summary of Stakeholder Engagement to Date Date Stakeholders Stakeholder Engagement Methods Location Purpose Summary Feedback 6 March 2019 • Farm A Landowner Face-to-face meetings At Farm A • Inform the relevant stakeholders about the proposed project; • Capture views and concerns of the relevant stakeholders about the project; • Understand the needs of the communities and capture valuable information to make an informed decision. Did not attend meeting 6 March 2019 • Farm B land user Face-to-face meetings At Farm B • Inform the relevant stakeholders about the proposed project; • Capture views and concerns of the relevant stakeholders about the project; • Understand the needs of the communities and capture valuable information to make an informed decision. Farm B are content with the development, but they are concerned about the lack of response to obtain alternative land from the Administration. 6-7 March 2019 • Deputy Khokim of Navoi region • Chief of the Main Department • Chief specialist of the Investments department of Navoi region • Deputy Khokim of Karmana district on investment, innovation, support of privatized enterprises, free economic and small industrial zones as well the development of tourism • Head of District Irrigation Department • Chief Engineer, Cadastral officials of Karmana district Common meeting at the Provincial Administration Offices Navoi City • Identify and prioritize key stakeholder groups; • Inform the relevant stakeholders about the proposed project; • Capture views and concerns of the relevant stakeholders about the project; • Understand the needs of the communities and capture valuable information to make an informed decision; • Enhance ownership of the Project within the host communities; • Provide a basis for stakeholder participation in impact identification and mitigation; • Provide a basis for managing and responding grievances from the local communities and other stakeholders, and Generally satisfied with the project. Observations made in terms of: • Nature of the canal adjacent to the site (irrigation) and permits to obtain water. • General status of the proposed land, previous and current contracts (right of use). Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 5 Stakeholder Engagement Programme Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 56 Date Stakeholders Stakeholder Engagement Methods Location Purpose Summary Feedback • Provide a strategy and timetable for sharing information and consulting with each of these groups. 6-7 March 2019 • Chairman of the mahalla committee Malik (Uzumzor is part of the Mahalla Malik) Meeting at the Local Administration Offices Uzumzor • Understand the EIA regulatory framework; • Explain the Project and its expected effects; • Get the views and opinions on potential Project impacts; • Gather existing baseline information on the environmental aspects. Satisfied with the fact the that project will be developed in the local council she rules. She mentioned that there is a community (named Residential Area in the Project Location section), that apparently is not within her jurisdiction, with a high unemployment rate. 6-7 March 2019 • Specialist from the Women's Committee Meeting at the Provincial Administration Offices Uzumzor • Capture views and concerns of the relevant stakeholders about the project. They have a programme to integrate women, including but not limited to vulnerable categories (e.g. ex-convicts, domestic violence, etc.), in the job market. They offered support to the future concessionaire to help recruit women for the project. 12 April 2019 • Cadastral officials of Karmana district Navoi Khokimiyat Navoi • Confirm that there were no grievances, open claims or court cases, filed by the project area land occupiers/users with the government. No issues identified PRELIMINARY ESIA PHASE 2 March 2020 • Kamoliddin Khasanov. Deputy Khokim of Navoi Region on Investments Face-to-face meetings Navoi Khokimiyat • Mission tasks, stakeholders meeting list • • Overview of the region economic indicators 2 March 2020 • Elbek Gafforov. Deputy Head of Investment Department n of Navoi Region Khokimiyat Face-to-face meetings Navoi Khokimiyat • Mission tasks, stakeholders meeting list • Provided general support to the ESIA team. 2 March 2020 • Hurshid Karamatov. Investment and Foreign Trade Department of Navoi Region Khokimiyat Face-to-face meetings Navoi Khokimiyat • Mission tasks, stakeholders meeting list • Provided general support to the ESIA team. 2 March 2020 • Mumin Ikromov. Head of Navoi region Melioration Department Face-to-face meetings Navoi Khokimiyat • Specialists required for the meeting • Provided general support to the ESIA team. 3 March 2020 • Abbos Ibragimov. Lead Specialist of Navoi Region Irrigation Department Face-to-face meetings Navoi Khokimiyat • Specialists required for the meeting • Information provided on irrigation canals, water abstraction permits and issues. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 5 Stakeholder Engagement Programme Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 57 Date Stakeholders Stakeholder Engagement Methods Location Purpose Summary Feedback 3-7 March 2020 • Sherzod Jumaev. Deputy Khokim of Karmana District Face-to-face meetings Navoi and Karmana Khokimiyat • Arranging the meetings and support with any information required. • Provided general support to the ESIA team. 4 March 2020 • Farm B land user Face-to-face meetings At Farm B • Inform the relevant stakeholders about the proposed project status; • Capture views and concerns about the project. • As per previous meeting Farm B are content with the development, but they are concerned about the lack of response to obtain alternative land from the Administration. 4 March 2020 • Participants: consultants (Yusupova Saida, Sharipova Elmira), representative of the Karmana khokimiat, teachers of school No. 26, representatives of the makhalla committee, elders and residents of the makhalla Malik (Kurgan Gulshan) and a doctor from the rural medical center of the mahalla Malik. Meeting at the local school 26 Malik The purpose of the meeting is to present the project; answer to questions of the residents in connection with a new project in the mahalla. The following issues were discussed: • Construction of a solar power plant (SPP). • SPP is planned to be built on the territory of Uzumzor village, a part of the makhalla Malik. • Brief information about the company • Company projects in other countries • Area of the SPP • Technology to be deployed at the plant (solar panels) • Impact on the residents • Questions and answers session: - What will be the environmental impact of the project? - How many jobs will be created? - What kind of specialists will be needed? - What technology will be used when installing solar panels? - Have such projects been implemented in Uzbekistan? - Are there any similar projects in neighboring countries? - Who is the customer of the project? - Will there be a change in electricity tariffs for the population? - Where will the equipment come from? - How many kilometers from the SPP to the village? - Who is the developer of the SPP project? - Will provide services to repair solar panels installed by the population (for private use)? - Drinking water coming through Damhodzha waterpipe in the summer has a weak watercourse. Gulshan barrow is located above the level of the water conduit and resedents pump water. Such situation exists only in this section of the Mahalla. Other sections are below the water level. Residents are afraid that if the SPP uses water, they will receive less water for their own needs. - Farmers use water for irrigation from the AmiBukhoro canal and from two collectors. This summer, water was significantly reduced. Will there be enough water for irrigation and for the needs of the SES? Draft Stakeholder Engagement Plan 20 MW Solar PV Plant by Mount Coffee in Liberia COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC AECOM 64 Table 5-2: Stakeholder Engagement Programme Stakeholder Category Stakeholder Engagement Methods Location/ Timeline Purpose Consultation Disclosure Materials Mean of Advance Notification ESIA DEVELOPMENT PHASE • Deputy Khokim of Navoi region • Chief of the Main Department • Chief specialist of the Investments department of Navoi region • Deputy Khokim of Karmana district on investment, innovation, support of privatized enterprises, free economic and small industrial zones as well the development of tourism • Head of District Irrigation Department • Chief Engineer, Cadastral officials of Karmana district One-to-one meetings Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Provide update on Project status; • Get the views and opinions on potential Project impacts; • Gather existing baseline information on the environmental aspects. Project leaflet / ESSR Phone/email Chairman of the mahalla committee Malik (Uzumzor is part of the Mahalla Malik) One-to-one meeting Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Provide update on Project status; • Get the views and opinions on potential Project impacts; • Gather existing baseline information, e.g. on livelihoods, demographics, health status, infrastructure, best approaches to further stakeholder engagement, key issues of concerns in the area Project leaflet / ESSR Phone/email Specialist from the Women's Committee One-to-one meeting Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Provide update on Project status; • Get the views and opinions on potential Project impacts; • Gather existing baseline information, e.g. on land use issues: how the project site and the surrounding lands are currently used Project leaflet / ESSR Phone/email Cadastral officials of Karmana district One-to-one meeting Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Provide update on Project status; • Get the views and opinions on potential Project impacts; • Gather existing baseline information, e.g. on water supply issues: water use patters, municipal infrastructure – availability and capacities Project leaflet / ESSR Phone/email Land users • One-on-one meetings Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on • Provide update on Project status; • Collect information on the villages’ profiles – demography livelihoods, farming, livestock, Project presentation Grievance Mechanism leaflet Via the aksakals/phone Draft Stakeholder Engagement Plan 20 MW Solar PV Plant by Mount Coffee in Liberia COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC AECOM 65 Stakeholder Category Stakeholder Engagement Methods Location/ Timeline Purpose Consultation Disclosure Materials Mean of Advance Notification relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] health problems, gender roles, land use (herding, tracks), public infrastructure use, key problems in the area and potential concerns • Explain the Project and its expected effects; • Get the views and opinions on potentially concerning issues; • Share information on the Grievance mechanism. Wider local community of Uzumzor • Leaflets in public places • Media announcements • Grievance mechanism Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Provide update on Project status; • Get the views and opinions on potentially concerning issues; • Share information on the Grievance mechanism. Project leaflet (incl. information on the Grievance Mechanism) Leaflets in public places Media announcements Other governmental departments/agencies • One-to-one meetings • Data collection requests • Email correspondence • Phone calls [Depending on the Project needs and within each body’s remit and field of responsibility] Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Provide update on Project status; • Get the views and opinions on potential Project impacts; • Obtain the necessary approvals. Project leaflets/ESHIA scoping report/Official correspondence Phone/email/personal interaction Non-Government Organisations • One-to-one meetings • Email correspondence • Phone calls Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Provide update on Project status; • Discuss opportunities for cooperation Project leaflet / ESSR Phone/email/personal interaction Media • Media announcements • Grievance mechanism Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Provide update on Project status; • Share information on the Grievance mechanism. Project leaflet / ESSR Phone/email Research/Educational Organisations • One-to-one meetings • Data collection requests • Email correspondence • Phone calls [Depending on the Project needs and within each body’s remit and field of responsibility] Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Provide update on Project status; • Get the views and opinions on potential Project impacts; • Gather existing baseline information; • Share expectations on the employment Project leaflet / ESSR Phone/email EIA /ESIA DISCLOSURE PHASE Draft Stakeholder Engagement Plan 20 MW Solar PV Plant by Mount Coffee in Liberia COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC AECOM 66 Stakeholder Category Stakeholder Engagement Methods Location/ Timeline Purpose Consultation Disclosure Materials Mean of Advance Notification All stakeholder groups • Disclosure online • Placement of paper versions in public places • Leaflets in public places • Media announcements Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Disclose and discuss the results of the ESHIA study online NTS of the ESIA online Media announcements Website announcements Regional Government Agencies • One-to-one meeting Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Discuss/coordinate the public hearing event on the local EIA results Local EIA package Personal interaction Local libraries • One-to-one meetings • Phone calls • Placement of paper versions • Placement of leaflets Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Arrange disclosure of the local EIA package Local EIA package Personal interaction All stakeholder groups • Public hearing event • Placement of leaflets in public places • Media announcements Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Comply with the RUz EIA regulatory requirements • Disclose and discuss the results of the EIA study Local EIA package NTS of the ESIA online Media announcements CONSTRUCTION PHASE All stakeholder groups • Disclosure online • Placement of paper versions in public places • Leaflets in public places • Media announcements Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Disclose and discuss the construction status and any major events due to take place (component delivery for example). Notices Media announcements Website announcements. Notice posted in public locations. Regional Government Agencies • One-to-one meeting Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Disclose and discuss the construction status and any major events due to take place (component delivery for example). Local EIA package Personal interaction Local libraries • One-to-one meetings • Phone calls • Placement of paper versions • Placement of leaflets Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] • Disclose and discuss the construction status and any major events due to take place (component delivery for example). Local EIA package Personal interaction Notice posted in public locations All stakeholder groups • Public event • Placement of leaflets in public places Location/Date: [TBC and will be decided on • Disclose and discuss the construction status and any major events due to take place (component delivery for example). Local EIA package NTS of the ESIA online Media announcements Notice posted in public locations Draft Stakeholder Engagement Plan 20 MW Solar PV Plant by Mount Coffee in Liberia COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC AECOM 67 Stakeholder Category Stakeholder Engagement Methods Location/ Timeline Purpose Consultation Disclosure Materials Mean of Advance Notification • Media announcements relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions] Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 68 6. Environmental and Social Baseline 6.1 Overview Specific local conditions have been described from a combination of desk-based review and site survey. The preliminary site reconnaissance was carried out by the Typsa E&S Scoping team on the 30 October 2018 followed up by detailed ground investigations in January 2019. A further E&S visit took place in March 2019. Further primary baseline data was collected by the AECOM ESIA team during March 2020 as part of the Preliminary ESIA studies and these were used to fill any knowledge gaps for the baseline section of the ESIA report. A final site visit is proposed for the detailed ESIA study. 6.2 Field Reconnaissance The initial reconnaissance exercise was undertaken in October 2018 and involved a walkover of the Project site, as well as the area immediately surrounding the Site. Further site walkovers and intrusive investigations were carried out during January 2019, March 2019 and March 2020 visits to the Project area. Table 6-1: Record of Field Reconnaissance Date Description and purpose 30 October 2018 The first reconnaissance was undertaken on October 30th, 2018 by a team of three consultants, two consultants from Typsa and one consultant from the local E&S subcontractor. 9-26 January 2019 Ground investigations were carried out from January 9 to 26 by ELLIPS, and a geotechnical expert from TYPSA was on site supervising the ground investigations, including the procedures and the collection of samples. A chemical analysis of the water quality of adjacent drainage canals was performed. 5-6 March 2019 The other two trips were done on March 5th and 6th 2019 by one consultant from Typsa, one consultant from 5 Capitals and one consultant from the local E&S subcontractor. The information provided in the baseline section is based on satellite imagery, information provided by an Uzbekistani environmental consultancy, information captured during a site visit undertaken by the 5 Capitals’ team on the 5th and 6th of March 2019, and information provided by administrative, interest and affected based stakeholders during consultation meetings. The first official round of stakeholder engagement activities (from an E&S perspective) took place in Navoi (city) and in Uzumzor on the 5th and 6th of March 2019. 3-6 March 2020 Ecology, social, archaeological site surveys carried out by AECOM with one specialist from Green Business Innovation and an ecologist from Navoi. Social surveys took place at Uzumzor and stakeholder meetings were held in Navoi and Uzumzor. 6.3 Physical characteristics 6.3.1 Climate and Meteorology The average annual precipitation for 2010-2017, according to weather stations 20 varies from 74.0 mm to 284.2 mm per year. The annual amount of precipitation for several years (2010-2017) within the irrigated area varies from 97.0 mm to 284.2 mm. Most of the precipitation (70-90%) occurs in the winter and spring. In summer rainfall is rarely observed. Average annual air temperature in the area of Navoi city equals to 15.87 ℃. The coldest month is January (average temperature is 2.77℃), the hottest one is July (average temperature is 28.78 ℃). Absolute minimal air temperatures in a cold period of a year reach – 17.4℃. Absolute maximum value is observed during the period of time from May to August and is more than 40℃ (43.8 ℃ in 2007). The monthly weather averages are shown in more detail in the figures below. 20 Data from nearest weather station: Samarkand, Uzbekistan (146.0 KM). Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 69 Figure 6-1: Average minimum and maximum temperature over the year Figure 6-2: Average monthly hours of sunshine over the year Figure 6-3: Average monthly precipitation over the year (rainfall, snow) Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 70 Figure 6-4: Average humidity over the year Figure 6-5: Average wind speed over the year 6.3.2 Geology and Soils 6.3.2.1 Overview A study of the geology encountered in the region has been carried out based on desktop research and the site survey carried out during the initial geotechnical survey on site. This study was carried out and reported by TPYSA and has been summarised within this chapter. 21 6.3.2.2 Ground investigations Ground investigations were carried out from January 9 to 26, 2019 by ELLIPS, and a geotechnical specialist from TYPSA was on site supervising the ground investigations, including the procedures and the collection of samples. Site investigations included the following: • Surface geological survey (1) • Trial pits (23) • Dynamic penetration tests (22) • Boreholes (1) • Vertical electric soundings (1) 22 trial pits were excavated by means of a drilling machine with a 45cm diameter helical auger. Pits were excavated to a depth of 3 meters, except when problems arose during excavation, due to excessive hardness of soil which occurred on three occasions, P-4, P-15 and P-21, where the final depth was limited to 2.5, 2.7 and 2.5 meters respectively. In addition, one trial pit was manually excavated to a depth of 1.6 meters, with the aim of obtaining undisturbed soil samples. 21 TYPSA, 2019. Geotechnical Report. Project SP5331. Code SP5331-Geotechnical-00-D02.docx Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 71 Dynamic penetration tests were carried out until rejection occurred, which was encountered at depths of between 1.9 and 3.7 meters, although in the majority of cases it took place between a depth of 2 and 3 meters. The borehole was of a continuous core recovery type and extended to a depth of 8.8 meters. Due to drilling difficulties, two boreholes were started. The first of stopped at a depth of 3.3 meters, and the second one, located at a distance of 3 meters from the first, extended to a depth of 8.8 meters from the surface. 7 SPT tests were carried out in the borehole. Disturbed samples were obtained from the extracted soil in borehole and trial pits. 40 samples were numbered in pits and three in the borehole. Furthermore, one undisturbed sample was obtained in the manual pit MP-1. Additionally, two water samples were collected from the adjacent channels, east and west of the plot, for chemical analysis. Vertical electric soundings had a maximum AB/2 extension of 65 meters, and it is understood that a depth of between 20-25 meters has been explored. All these research points were scattered around the plot following a regular pattern, aimed at covering the whole project area involved. The borehole and two additional pits/dynamic penetration tests couples were located on the east end, where placement of the control building and main electric facilities was considered to be most likely. Based on the results of the on-site research, a laboratory test program was carried out. Some identification, strength, compaction and chemical tests were carried out on the samples extracted on site. 6.3.2.3 Local Geology From a geological point of view the solar plant area is located on an extensive and plain surface, as a part of the fluvial terrace of the Zarafshan river, about 20 to 25 meters above the flood plain of the river. The Quaternary sedimentary bodies were deposited predominantly by river systems and intermittent streams during uplift of the Tien Shan ridges at the central and eastern area of Uzbekistan. Four sedimentary sequences record four episodes of mountain uplift. Each sequence started with conglomeratic layers and ended with sandstone and shale. These deposits left river terraces on four levels which are well preserved in mountainous regions. In this area, the terrace is mainly made up of sandy gravel to the surveyed depth (8.8 meters on the PV plant site), though a superficial sandy silt layer has been detected on the surface. This gravelly body mainly occupies a huge area south of the Zarafshan river and has been identified and described on the cuts over the alluvial plain of the river (C-4 soil cut – see Annex 3 of Typsa report), in the actual PV plant plot (at a distance of about 4.5 km from the river) and to the south, beyond the area being studied. The gravel is made up of rounded quartzite pebbles less than 10cm in diameter, immersed in a silty sandy matrix and interbedded with sand layers. Gravel is prevailing in observed points, though sandy layers may be present in some places. This gravel body is deeply embedded in gypsum near the surface, though salinization seems to lessen as the depth increases. Most of surveyed points are no more than 2 or 3 meters deep and they all are deeply primed by gypsum (see C-4 and C-5 cuts in Annex 3 of Typsa report), though in pits and borehole carried out on site (where gravel is below the superficial sandy silt layer) the presence of gypsum is relatively low, and seems to decrease as the depth increases. This gravelly body is part of the old deposits of the Zarafshan river, that are now above the river elevation due to the subsequent fluvial erosion. Over this sandy gravelly body, a superficial sandy silt body exists. It is mostly made up of sandy silts that occasionally become silty sand, occasionally with a proportion of gravel. Its thickness is very low, about 2 meters, and it covers the entire PV plot. Although the occasional presence of pebbles could advise us as to the fluvial origin of the soil, the extreme abundance of the particle size 0.1 - 0.05mm (fine sand - silt, see chapter 5) suggests aeolian or a mixture of fluvial-aeolian origin. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 72 Furthermore, intense gypsum cementation (whether amorphous or crystalline) widely affects this superficial sandy silt layer. Some gypsum is dispersed into the soil filling the interstices while some others fill the existing fissures, giving rise to vertical aligned gypsum bodies several centimetres thick, associated with geological structural directions. The intense salty enrichment seems to have happened after soil sedimentation, and it is likely that contamination of sandy silty layer may also come (at least partially) from aerial contamination; this phenomenon is currently ongoing. It should be noted that the superficial sandy silt layer does not always sit directly on the gravel bodies but sometimes sand layers are located in between. Given the lower content of gypsum and the higher compactness of this sand layer, it is thought that they are in fact horizontal transitions from gravel bodies, linked in some way to fluvial dynamics (such as gravel bodies) more than to the fluvial-aeolian presumed origin of the superficial sandy silt layer. It should be noted that the sand layer sometimes identified between the defined sandy silt body and the sandy-gravel body, is not represented in sections as it was not possible to define this appropriately, and therefore it will be somewhere over the sandy silt and gravel contact. In the valley of the Zarafshan River, the groundwater is confined to alluvial-proluvial gravel formation with an aquifer thickness of up to 50m. Nevertheless, no groundwater was identified in surveys carried out to a depth of 8.8 meters. It can therefore be concluded that no groundwater would be encountered during construction works. 6.3.2.4 Seismicity For the purposes of seismic resistant design, Uzbekistan has issued the code KMK 2.01.03-96 “Norms and Regulations for Construction in Seismic Zones” and KMK 2.07.01-94 “Town planning, lay-out and building of urban and village settlements “ According to the seismic code, the project site is located between zones 7 and 8. The intensity and return period of earthquakes with probable intensity above VII are provided in this design code, where Navoi has an intensity of VII with 100 years of return period. In the context of the Global Seismic Hazard Assessment Project (GSHAP), a seismic hazard distribution map of Uzbekistan was extracted from the global seismic risk data. The resulting map contains the global distribution of the Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA), expressed in m/s2, with a 10% chance of exceedance (90% chance of non-exceedance) for an exposure time of 50 years and a corresponding return period of 475 years. The project site is located between medium seismic hazard (PGA=0.8 - 2.4 m/s2) and high seismic hazard (PGA=2.4 - 4.0 m/s2) and 475 years of return period. 6.3.3 Hydrology and hydrogeology 6.3.3.1 Regional The Zarafshan river is the only permanent, natural surface water flow in the Navoi province. The river is glacier-snow fed. According to national reports, the water quality of the Zarafshan river has deteriorated as a result of irrigation returns and wastewater discharges from residential areas. A comparative sampling survey undertaken in the Zarafshan river (1 km upstream and 0.5 km downstream the city of Navoi) showed that activity in the area contributes to a deterioration in water quality, particularly in relation to levels of suspended solids, ammonia, oil, sulphate, sodium, phosphate, copper, zinc, chromium and lead. This could be representative of the two canals located in close proximity to the boundary of the proposed project site. The water bodies in close proximity to the proposed project site are: • Zarafshan River – ~5km N of the proposed site • Skurkulshoe Reservoir – ~25km N of the proposed site • Navoi Canal – ~9km SE of the proposed site. The Zarafshan is the third largest river of Uzbekistan. It originates at 2,750 m a.s.l. and is glacier fed. The total river basin covers an area of 4,000 km2, the river length is 781 km. At its source the river is known as Mostchokh-Darya. Further downstream, after taking several tributaries, the name is changed Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 73 to Zarafshan. For the first 300 km the river flows through Tajikistan, then it enters Zarafshan Valley, situated in the Samarkand region of Uzbekistan. In its whole catchment the Zarafshan receives 70 tributaries. Figure 6-6: Zarafshan River north of the Project site Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 80 Figure 6-11. Zone of Theoretical Visibility and Landscape Study Area Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 81 6.4.2.2 Data Sources The approach to the landscape and visual assessment has been devised to address the specific effects likely to result from a development of this scale and nature. The methodology draws upon the following established good practice guidance, based predominantly on UK guidance: • UK Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, 3rd Edition (GLVIA3) (Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, 2013); and • Visual Representations of Development Proposals, Technical Guidance Note 06/19 (Landscape Institute, 2019). The landscape and visual assessments are primarily desk based and informed by Site photography. There are no published Landscape Character Assessments for Uzbekistan; therefore, for the purpose of this assessment, and in the absence of existing specific datasets, GIS and mapping have been used to develop landscape character areas relevant to this Project and Study Area. The visual assessment is based on 7 viewpoints which have been selected to represent the experience of the different types of visual receptor where significant visual impacts are most likely to result. 6.4.3 Current Landscape Condition The Project is located on flat open plain enclosed by the Zarafshan river to the north and highway M37 to the south. A general view of the site is shown on Figure 6-12. The only features of interest within the site and immediate surroundings are a single tree and the two farms to the north and south. OHLs are clearly visible to the south. Figure 6-12. Site Context The region is semi-arid and land cover within the Site and immediate context is predominantly scrub grassland. Settlements are small, comprising nucleated villages and isolated farmhouses, connected by the M37 highway and an informal network of smaller tracks. Agricultural land tends to surround settlements. The largest nearby settlement, the village of Uzumzor, is 2.8 km east of the Project. Land surrounding the village is irrigated agricultural farmland and rough grazing. Existing electrical infrastructure including three overhead lines are located immediately east of the Site. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 82 6.4.3.1 Landscape Character Areas Desk based analysis has identified three Landscape Character Areas within the 10 km study area. The description, key characteristics, likely trends and consideration of landscape value of each are detailed below. Project Landscape Character Areas are described in Table 6-3. Table 6-3. Project Landscape Character Areas LCA Description LCA 01 Zarafshan River Like much of this region the LCA has been disturbed by human influences. The main features of this LCT are the main river valley, irrigation canals, built development, roads and bridges however much of this infrastructure has been in a state of decay for some years. There is little in the way of vertical features within this LCA other that overhead lines and pylons. Residential properties tend to be single storey with a small amount extending the two stories. There are a number of important archaeological sites however these have often been damaged by more recent construction. For example, constructing overhead lines and pylons on the wall of a former fortress. Overall the landscape value of LCA 01 is considered to be low. LCA 02 Semi Arid Plains This LCA contains relatively commonplace steppe landscape features. The backdrop to this LCT is the city of Navoi to the east and this has a considerable influence on the scenic quality. The detracting influence of industrial developments including an electricity substation, widespread pylons and overhead lines result in an overall landscape value which is considered to be low. The landscape quality improves considerably to the south of the hills to the south of the project area however the hills create a natural barrier limiting the extent of LCA 02. LCA 03 Uzumzor and Agricultural Farmlands This LCA is largely a transition between LCA 02 and the more industrial LCA 04. The LCA is characterised by medium sized agricultural fields and irrigation channels associated with the residential edge of Uzumzor and surrounding villages. Views towards the industrial facilities including Navoi Cement Plant (26km east south east) and Navoiyskiy Elektro-Khimicheskiy Zavod (22km east south east) and overhead lines crossing this LCA significantly reduces the scenic quality of this LCA. As such the landscape value in this LCA is low. LCA 04 Navoi and Environs This LCA incudes the main settlement of Navoi but more importantly the industrial developments surrounding the city. This includes a coal fired power station (28km east south east), visible flaring (>30km east south east) and Navoi Cement Plant emitting yellow/brown smoke from the main stack (26km east south east). In addition, there are significant amounts of pylons, overhead lines and pipelines visible above ground. The setting is almost completely industrial and as a result the landscape value is low. Representative views from the above LCTs are shown in the below figures. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 83 Figure 6-13. Core Area of LCT 01 Zarafshan River Figure 6-14. Core Area of LCT 02 Semi Arid Plains Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 84 Figure 6-15. LCA 03 Uzumzor and Agricultural Farmlands Figure 6-16. LCA 04 Navoi and Environs – View of Coal Fired Power Station from the M37 . Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 85 6.4.3.2 Zone of Theoretical Visibility A computer generated ZTV map has been prepared for the Project, to assist the assessment process. This has been used to inform the selection of representative viewpoints and to illustrate the potential influence of the Project in the wider landscape. The ZTV map indicates areas from where it may be possible to view part of or the entire Project. However, the use of the map needs to be qualified by the following considerations: • The ZTV has been generated using ALOS WORLD 3D Digital Surface Model at 5 m horizontal resolution assuming the observer eye level of 1.6 m; • The ZTV mapping is limited by the detail of the digital terrain model data used and does not take account of local topographic variations or screening from built form or vegetation; • Some areas of theoretical visibility may comprise woodland, upland or agricultural land, where there is effectively no public access and the likelihood of views being experienced is consequently low; and • The ZTV does not take account of the likely orientation of a viewer, such as the direction of travel and there is no allowance for reduction of visibility with distance, weather or light. These limitations mean that the ZTV map tends to overestimate the extent of the visibility, both in terms of the area from which the Project is visible and the extent of the Project, which is visible. It should be considered as a tool to assist in assessing the theoretical visibility of the Project and not a measure of the visual effect. The ZTV shows widespread visibility of the Project in the area south of the project site to the mountains with some visibility to the north of the Zarafshan River. There are pockets where there is no visibility due to landform. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 86 Figure 6-17. Viewpoints Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 87 6.4.3.2.1 Visual Receptors Visual receptors within the scope of this assessment are described in the following section and are grouped into the following categories: • Views from residential settlements; • Transient views from nearby roads; and • Views from recreational/access routes and places of interest. There are a number of settlements and scattered properties within the study area where residents experience a range of views that have the potential to be affected by the Project. Uzumzor is a village approximately 2.5 km east of the Project and would experience open, expansive views towards the Site from the western extents of the village. In addition, there is a small settlement 2.5km to the south of the Site where the nature and focus of views is varied. The network of informal tracks that is occasionally used for access will experience varying views. Of wider importance are the religious and cultural sites on the Silk Road including the Deggaroni which has attracted visitors from as far afield as the UK. 6.4.3.2.2 Representative Viewpoints A total of seven representative viewpoints have been selected based on the visual receptor criteria above and where the Project is likely to affect views. Representative viewpoints are shown on Figure 5-10. The baseline description and value judgment for each is detailed in Table 6-4 below. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 88 Table 6-4. Viewpoint Descriptions Viewpoint ID Location Representative Receptors Description Viewpoint 1 1.5 km north of the nearest part of the Project Site boundary Access road This viewpoint is representative of residents travelling from Khazara to the M37 highway and potentially visitors to the Deggaroni. The foreground of the view is enclosed by a 2 m high earth wall formed by the excavation of the drainage canal running parallel with the road. The earth wall effectively limits views to the road and immediate foreground. The number of electrical cables and transmission towers forms the predominant vertical features of this view. As the viewer approaches the M37 road the pylons become the dominant feature of the view. As noted, views of residents will be partially restricted by the topography, vegetation and earth wall and therefore the visual value is considered to be low. Viewpoint 2 1 km south east of the nearest part of the Project Site boundary Highways receptors This viewpoint is similar to VP 1 that it is representative of residential receptors travelling to Khazara from the M37 highway and potentially visitors to the Deggaroni. The foreground of the view is generally open towards the Project and the dominant features in the foreground are the overhead lines and pylons. The number of electrical cables and transmission towers forms the predominant vertical features of this view. The views experienced will be transient as there are no residential properties in this area. As noted, views of residents will be partially restricted by the topography, vegetation and earth wall and therefore the visual value is considered to be low. Viewpoint 3 2.5 km east of the closest part of the Project Site boundary Residential receptors The view, looking south west of the project, is representative of residents in the Uzumzor area. The foreground is comprised of areas of cultivated ground and the main M37 highway which is the primary route between Samarkand, Navoi and Bukhara. The middle ground is largely comprised of the earth wall on the edge of the drainage canal and the minor road, that runs across the majority of the view, along with a mix of scattered electrical poles. Long distance views of transmissions towers can be seen creating vertical lines on the skyline. There is considerable screening provided by the existing topography therefore the visual value is considered to be low. Viewpoint 4 2.5 km south of the Project Site boundary Residential receptors This view is representative of residential receptors in a small cluster of dwellings, illustrates views to the south of the Project. The view is flat, with expansive panoramic views, comprising of cultivated fields in the foreground. The vast landscape is disturbed by human influence and there is a line of farm buildings which distinguish between the foreground and middle ground. A few scattered remnants of low-level structures/ materials and field boundaries can be seen in the background. Transmission towers create vertical lines in the skyline. Due to the distracting elements of the view, the visual value is considered to be low. Viewpoint 5 1 km south west of the Project Site boundary Highways Receptors This viewpoint is similar to VP 1 and 2 that it is representative of receptors travelling on M37 highway and potentially visitors travelling to the Navoi area. Views would only be experience by receptors travelling east from the direction of Bukhara. The foreground of the view is generally screened by a central reservation and bridge/fencing on the road verge. In keeping with other VPs, views are fairly open towards the Project but the dominant features in the foreground are the overhead lines and pylons. The number of electrical cables and pylons forms the predominant vertical features of this view. The views experienced will be transient as there are no residential properties in this area. At this location distant views of the oil refinery and industrial facilities become visible in an east southeast direction. The visual value is considered to be low. Viewpoint 6 <1 km west of the Project Site boundary Residential receptors The view is looking east towards the Project along a dirt track, representative of a single farm property and road users who are likely to be resident of the nearest villages further to the west. The foreground of the view is flat, open with wide angle views, comprising Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 89 Viewpoint ID Location Representative Receptors Description of areas of steppe, with areas of small shrubs but with pylons and overhead lines in the whole view. The middle ground comprises of a continuation of steppe rising to a higher point in the middle ground before dropping down the M37 and becoming hidden from view at this VP. The background of this view is framed by distant hills. The pylons and overhead lines are the primary focus of the view due its contrasting colours and vertical height with the surrounding flat, open landscape and therefore the visual value is considered to be low. Viewpoint 7 5 km north of the Project Site boundary Residential / recreational receptors The view is representative of residents of Khazara and tourists visiting the Deggaroni or ruined fort along a minor tarmac road which is in poor condition. This illustrates views to the north of the Project. The foreground of the view is relatively flat, open and rising in elevation, comprising of overgrazed steppe vegetation. The elevated ground creates a ridge in middle ground which effectively screens views of the Project. The key features at this location are the pylons and overhead lines however the ruined fort and Deggaroni are visible at this location but behind the viewer. The comparable scale of the vertical structures tends to focus views to immediate foreground and with the screening effect of topography the visual value is considered to be low. Views of cultural sites are in the opposite direction of the Project therefore the Project would not alter the views experienced of those sites. Figure 6-18. Viewpoint 1 Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 96 helioscopus, Phrynocephalus interscapularis, Eremias lineolata, Eremias scripta, Trapelus sanguinolentus, Cyrtopodion caspius and Teratoscincus scincus. The fish fauna is comprised of 10 species. The flora has not been studied in detail, but it includes species typical of wet parts of the desert areas of Bukhara. 26 6.5.5 Flyways The Central Asian Flyway (CAF) covers a large continental area of Eurasia between the Arctic and Indian Oceans and the associated island chains. The Flyway comprises several important migration routes of waterbirds, most of which extend from the northernmost breeding grounds in the Russian Federation (Siberia) to the southernmost non-breeding (wintering) grounds in West and South Asia, the Maldives and the British Indian Ocean Territory. The birds on their annual migration cross the borders of several countries. Geographically the flyway region covers 30 countries of North, Central and South Asia and Trans-Caucasus (including Uzbekistan). There is an overlap between the CAF and the area of the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA), which was concluded in 1995, at The Hague, the Netherlands. Sixteen out of the thirty countries encompassed by the CAF are located in the AEWA Agreement Area (including Uzbekistan). Uzbekistan’s natural and artificial wetlands are important for migrating and overwintering waterfowl (Lanovenko 2006). More than 50 migratory waterbird species have been recorded on Uzbek wetlands, including at least nine which are globally threatened: Dalmatian Pelican Pelecanus crispus, Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus, White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala, Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca, White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla,Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis, Marbled Teal Marmaronetta angustirostris, Pallas’s Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucoryphus and Pygmy Cormorant Phalacrocorax pygmaeus. . Notable migratory species potentially using the flyway in the vicinity of the project area include the White-headed Duck and Sociable Lapwing (see further information under ‘Species of Concern’ below). 6.5.6 Avifauna Uzbekistan has a total of 352 bird species with 19 listed as globally threatened. 297 species are migratory with 55 resident species. No species are listed as country endemics. 27 One avian species categorised as Critically Endangered has been identified (IBAT 7 tool – using a 50 Km buffer) - Vanellus gregarious. The Tallymerjan area on the Uzbekistan/Turkmenistan border (approx. 140km south of the project area) has been highlighted as a key stopover site for the eastern flyway, with all birds monitored on the eastern flyway using this site as a stopover site during their migration. It is possible that birds fly over the proposed project site. It is also therefore possible that birds could use habitat surrounding the project as stopover sites during migration. Table 6-5: Globally threatened bird species Scientific Name Common name Family IUCN Category Oxyura leucocephala White-headed Duck Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, Swans) EN Anser erythropus Lesser White-fronted Goose Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, Swans) VU Melanitta fusca Velvet Scoter Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, Swans) VU Marmaronetta angustirostris Marbled Teal Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, Swans) VU Aythya ferina Common Pochard Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, Swans) VU Podiceps auritus Horned Grebe Podicipedidae (Grebes) VU Columba eversmanni Yellow-eyed Pigeon Columbidae (Pigeons, Doves) VU 26 BirdLife International (2020) Important Bird Areas factsheet: Tudakul and Kuymazar Reservoirs. Downloaded from http://www.birdlife.org on 03/02/2020 27 BirdLife International (2020) Country profile: Uzbekistan. Available from http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/country/uzbekistan. Checked: 2020-02-03 Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 97 Scientific Name Common name Family IUCN Category Streptopelia turtur European Turtle-dove Columbidae (Pigeons, Doves) VU Leucogeranus leucogeranus Siberian Crane Gruidae (Cranes) CR Otis tarda Great Bustard Otididae (Bustards) VU Chlamydotis macqueenii Asian Houbara Otididae (Bustards) VU Vanellus gregarius Sociable Lapwing Charadriidae (Plovers) CR Numenius tenuirostris Slender-billed Curlew Scolopacidae (Sandpipers, Snipes, Phalaropes) CR Neophron percnopterus Egyptian Vulture Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles) EN Clanga clanga Greater Spotted Eagle Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles) VU Aquila nipalensis Steppe Eagle Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles) EN Aquila heliaca Eastern Imperial Eagle Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles) VU Haliaeetus leucoryphus Pallas's Fish-eagle Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles) EN Falco cherrug Saker Falcon Falconidae (Falcons, Caracaras) EN 6.5.6.1 Species of Concern Sociable lapwing – Vanellus gregarious The sociable lapwing is a strikingly patterned plover species listed as Critically Endangered (CR) by the IUCN. It is listed as CR due to recent dramatic declines in population size across its range, with an estimated 5,600 pairs remaining globally. It is thought that illegal hunting during migration and on wintering grounds may now be the species primary threat, although the reasons for its recent decline are poorly understood (Birdlife International, 2018). The species breeds in Northern Kazakhstan during the summer months, and a large percentage of the population flies south-west to spend the winter in Syria and Sudan between September and March. A recently discovered migratory population however migrate to the east to winter in Pakistan, crossing Afghanistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan on their journey, and resting at stopover sites along their route (Birdlife International, 2018). The Tallymerjan area on the Uzbekistan/Turkmenistan border (approx. 140km south of the project area) has been highlighted as a key stopover site for the eastern flyway, with all birds monitored on the eastern flyway using this site as a stopover site during their migration. This indicates that one third of the global population may be using this site. Consultation with ecologists from the Emirate Centre for the Conservation of the Houbara (ECCH) at the Uzbekistan ECCH headquarters (to the east of Lake Tudakul) undertaken during the March field survey visit confirmed that low numbers of sociable lapwing utilise the steppe habitats associated with the hinterland of Lake Tudakul IBA as a stopover site during their migration (a single bird was recorded in 2019 and this species prefers wet steppe habitat [ECCH, pers comm]). It is possible that birds fly over the proposed project site (see map below of tracked birds in 2015). It is also therefore possible that birds could use habitat surrounding the project as stopover sites during migration, however there is no reasonable likelihood that the proposed Project site is a stopover site for this species considering the relatively small size of the steppe habitat which is ubiquitous throughout the region and the relative remoteness from the known stopover site associated with Lake Tudakul IBA. Additionally, the dry steppe habitat within the proposed Project site is less favourable for this species compared to wetter areas of steppe and cultivated habitat in the wider landscape. White headed Duck – Oxyura leucocephala Listed as endangered by the IUCN, this duck species is known to occur in Uzbekistan. It usually occurs within larger wetland systems where there are semi-permanent freshwater, brackish or eutrophic lakes with a fringe of Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 98 emergent vegetation (BirdLife International, 2019). Major threats include the drainage of appropriate habitat and hybridisation with the north American ruddy duck. It is noted to be present at the Tudakul and Kuymazar Reservoirs and Kagan Fish Farm KBAs. It is a migratory species. Steppe Eagle - Aquila nipalensis This species is widespread and occurs in Uzbekistan during its migration between breeding grounds further north and wintering grounds in Africa and on the Indian subcontinent. It is found predominantly in steppe and semidesert habitats, feeding mainly on small mammals. It has been severely affected by the conversion of steppe habitat to agricultural lands and is adversely affected by power line and wind energy infrastructure. It is now listed as Endangered by the IUCN. Saker Falcon - Falco cherrug The Saker Falcon is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to electrocution from power lines, overexploitation for the falcon trade and habitat degradation. The estimated global population of the species is now between 12,200 and 29,600 individuals across its large range, with resident and breeding populations occurring in Uzbekistan. A specialist in hunting in open terrain landscapes such as semi-desert, steppe habitat and agricultural areas, it mainly hunts terrestrial rodents (BirdLife International, 2019). This species is listed as present in the Karnabchul Steppe KBA and may therefore utilise habitats in or in close proximity to the proposed project site. Pallas’ Fish Eagle - Halieetus leucoryphus The project area is within the native non-breeding range of this species displayed on the IUCN red list. The species is closely linked to wetland, reservoirs and lake habitats and nests in trees near these water bodies. The eagle is listed as Endangered largely due to the continued loss and disturbance of wetland and breeding sites across its range, and there are now thought to be between 1000-2499 mature individuals globally. It is listed as a species that occurs at the Kagan Fish Farm IBA. Egyptian Vulture - Neophron percnopterus The project location is within the native breeding range of the Egyptian vulture. Across its large range it faces a variety of threats from lead poisoning, direct or secondary poisoning, electrocution from power lines, collision with wind turbines and reduced food availability due to habitat change and is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Houbara Bustard - Chlamydotis macqueenii Consultation with ecologists from the Emirate Centre for the Conservation of the Houbara (ECCH) at the Uzbekistan ECCH headquarters (to the east of Lake Tudakul) undertaken during the March field survey visit confirmed that houbara bustard occur Karnabchul Steppe IBA and adjacent areas. Birds associated with the ECCH reintroduction project are subject to a ringing and satellite tagging programme and individuals have been known to occasionally disperse from the re-introduction site to the wider Central Asia region, with the majority of birds residing within the IBA (ECCH ecologists pers comm). However, considering the small size of the habitat within the proposed project area, compared to the extensive areas of steppe which is ubiquitous throughout the region, the likelihood that this species is dependent on habitat within the proposed project area is considered to be negligible. Additionally, an elevated range of hills between the re-introduction site/IBA and the proposed project area has the potential to form a barrier to movement for this species. Houbara bustard was not recorded within the AOI during the AECOM March 2020 ecological field survey visit. ECCH ecologists had commenced fieldwork to monitor the population of the breeding population within Karnabchul Steppe IBA in the first week of March (ECCH ecologists pers comm). Therefore, the timing of the AECOM ecological surveys in March 2020 are considered suitable in terms of detecting breeding populations of this species within the AOI. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 99 6.5.6.2 Survey Results for the AECOM March 2020 Breeding and non-breeding residents (migratory) birds There are several Eurasian migrants that winter in Uzbekistan or migrate through the country as part of the AfricanEurasian flyway on route to neighbouring countries. Data has shown that there have been successive declines in populations of many Afro-Palaearctic migrant birds (BirdLife International, 2018). Other species may not breed in Uzbekistan but may migrate to other regions within Africa to breed. The single threatened species of conservation concern was observed during the March 2020 field surveys: steppe eagle (Aquila nipalensis) [IUCN Endangered]. A total of eleven birds were observed migrating in a northerly direction over and immediately adjacent to the eastern boundary of the proposed Project site on 3rd March. However, it is considered likely that these birds were migrating on a broad front as the proposed project site is not located on a major migration route or migration bottle neck for migratory raptors and storks and therefore there is no reasonable likelihood that the site is significant for exceptionally high numbers of migratory or congregatory species. Migratory species recorded during the field surveys, which may also breed within the proposed project area, are: desert wheatear (Oenanthe deserti) and isabelline wheatear (Oenanthe isabellina). These species are not of global conservation concern. Figure 6-24. Steppe eagle migrating over site Source: McAlister (2020). Site visit photos March 2020. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 100 Figure 6-25. Desert wheatear on site Source: McAlister (2020). Site visit photos March 2020. 6.5.6.3 Survey Results for Resident and Over-wintering Species No resident or resident species of global conservation concern were observed during the March 2020 field survey. A single species which may be sensitive to collision with power-lines was recorded: black-bellied sandgrouse (Pterocles orientalis) [a pair were recorded utilising the proposed project site for resting/foraging]. Crested lark (Galerida cristata) was commonly recorded within the proposed project site. Possible prey remnants of Saker falcon (Falco cherrug) [feral pigeon feathers] were noted during the field survey, however this species was not observed during the field survey visit. 6.5.7 Flora The vegetation was found to be in a desiccated form in line with the weather conditions following the summer and many ephemeral species were in an early growth stage (seedling). The species that were identified during the March 2020 AECOM surveys are detailed in Section 5.5.3. 6.5.7.1 Terrestrial Mammals No mammal species were observed during the March 2020 field visit, however several burrow complexes were noted. Small rodents are known to have burrow complexes and this was confirmed by the local ecologist during the field visit. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 101 Yellow ground squirrel (Spermophilus fulvus) [IUCN Least Concern] was recorded adjacent to the proposed Project site, to the south of the M37 carriageway. Goitered Gazelle - Gazella subgutturosa Listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN, the species is threatened by illegal hunting and habitat loss (agricultural conversion and increasing domestic livestock numbers). Known to inhabit a range of desert and semi-desert habitats across Central Asia, it is listed as known in the desert area around Kagan Fish Farm, although no spatial scales are given (Birdlife International, 2019). No evidence was recorded during site surveys. 6.5.7.2 Bats Bats species are nocturnal by nature and as the site surveys were conducted during the day no bats or evidence of their passing were observed. The two farm complexes which are located immediately adjacent to the proposed Project site were assessed as having low potential for roosting bats during the March 2020 field surveys. 6.5.7.3 Reptiles During the field survey, two reptile ecies were observed: Central Asian tortoise (Testudo horsfieldii) and sunwatcher toad-headed agama (Phrynocephalus helioscopus) Central Asian tortoise Listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN, the species is threatened by habitat loss (e.g. due to agricultural development) and long-term collection for the pet trade. This species is widely distributed in Uzbekistan and is widespread in semi-desert of the central Kyzylkum e.g. north-central Bukhara and southern Navoi (Showler, 2018). Two individuals were observed during the field surveys; an adult and a juvenile which were emerging from winter hibernation burrows. This species is active between March and May and from late May onwards it hides in burrows. The field survey was undertaken in the early stage of the active season and therefore the population within the proposed Study Area may have been under-recorded. Suitable burrows for sheltering tortoises were noted within the Study Area. The occurrence of Central Asian Tortoise does not trigger critical habitat in terms of IFC Performance Standard 6 (PS6); it is not listed as CR or EN on the IUCN Red List, nor is a restricted range species or endemic to Uzbekistan. The species population in Navoi Region has not been determined for the purposes of this preliminary assessment, however further ecological field survey is programmed for late June 2020. Applying the 1% rule for national assessments in the UK, and with consideration of the relatively small size of the modified steppe habitat within the Study Area compared to the ubiquity of more natural steppe vegetation within the wider region, there is no reasonable likelihood that the Project area is of regional value for Central Asian Tortoise (i.e. supporting more than 1% of the Navoi Region population). Nevertheless, this species is listed as IUCN VU and populations are confirmed to be present within the Project area. Therefore, further primary and secondary data is required to accurately determine the ecological baseline conditions for this species, so that potential impacts can be assessed in accordance with good ESIA practice and applicable standards and guidelines for international finance. This will be presented within the final ESIA on completion of the June 2020 surveys. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 102 Figure 6-26. Central Asian tortoise on site Source: McAlister (2020). Site visit photos March 2020. Sunwatcher toad-headed agama Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. At least two individuals were observed during the field surveys. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 103 Figure 6-27. Sunwatcher toad-headed agama on site Source: McAlister (2020). Site visit photos March 2020. Other reptiles Burrows which have the potential to support reptiles (for example lizards, snakes) were observed during the field visit, however the survey was not undertaken in the active season for many reptile species. Further survey and further information are proposed to be undertaken as part of the detailed ESIA study to confirm the status of reptiles within the Study Area. Amphibians The proposed Project site is unsuitable for amphibians. However, the wet drainage channels bordering the proposed Study Area e represent suitable aquatic habitat for amphibians however no observations of vocalising frog or toad species were noted. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 104 6.6 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage 6.6.1 Approach to Assessment The scope of the archaeology and cultural heritage baseline studies follows the definition set out in EBRD and IFC cultural heritage policy and guidance. EBRD PR8 defines cultural heritage “as a group of resources inherited from the past which people identify, independently of ownership, as a reflection and expression of their evolving values, beliefs, knowledge and traditions. It encompasses tangible (physical) and intangible cultural heritage, which is recognised at the local, regional or national level, or within the international community. Its scope includes: • Physical cultural heritage refers to movable or immovable objects, sites, groups of structures as well as cultural or sacred spaces associated therewith, and natural features and landscapes that have archaeological, paleontological, historical, architectural, religious, aesthetic or other cultural significance. • Intangible cultural heritage refers to practices, representations, expressions, knowledge and skills that communities, groups and, in some cases, individuals recognise as part of their cultural heritage and which are transmitted from generation to generation.” (EBRD 2019). IFC Performance Standard 8: Cultural Heritage (IFC 2012) aims to protect cultural heritage from the adverse impacts of project activities and support its preservation. Its scope includes: • Tangible cultural heritage with archaeological, paleontological, historical, cultural, artistic, and religious values. • Unique natural features or tangible objects that embody cultural values, such as sacred groves, sacred trees and rocks. • Intangible forms of culture proposed to be used for commercial purposes, such as cultural knowledge, innovations, and practices of communities embodying traditional lifestyles. • Critical Cultural Heritage, internationally recognised or legally protected cultural heritage areas, including proposed World Heritage Sites. Heritage of communities who use, or have used within living memory the cultural heritage for long-standing cultural purposes. The baseline study considers palaeontological sites and archaeological and cultural heritage sites ranging in date from the prehistoric to the modern period, and considers both tangible and intangible heritage. 6.6.2 Desktop Study Methodology The aim of the desktop study is to determine, as far as is reasonably possible from existing records, the nature, extent and significance of the archaeological, historic and cultural heritage within the Study Area. The desktop study describes the historical development of the Study Area and the wider area, placing it in context in order to predict its archaeological and cultural heritage potential; anticipate the type, date, and character of remains; and broadly indicate areas with higher archaeological potential based on factors such as geology, topography, past and present land use, known archaeological remains and vegetation cover. Historical and modern mapping, aerial and satellite imagery, as well as topographic mapping and geological and soil mapping, was assessed during the preparation of the desktop study. Available archaeological excavation and survey records were consulted, including regional atlases, academic studies, studies undertaken in association with environmental or development projects, relevant regional and period archaeological and landscape studies, dissertations and readily available historical evidence (see References). Key data sources include papers on archaeology, anthropology and history in a range of journals, including proceedings of Soviet state archaeology and palaeontology institutes, History of Material Culture of Uzbekistan, Archaeological Research in Uzbekistan, Nature Institut Français d’Études sur l’Asie Centrale and key synthetic works such as the UNESCO History of Civilizations of Central Asia and Encyclopaedia Iranica. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 105 6.6.3 Stakeholder Consultation Consultation has been undertaken to obtain information on known archaeological and cultural heritage sites, including the State Register and the national digital inventory of objects of cultural and archaeological heritage created pursuant to Presidential Decree No. R-5181 (16 January 2018). Advice has been sought regarding the organisation of: • State expertise (field reconnaissance survey, historical and cultural examination of archaeological heritage sites); • Fieldwork permitting and open list procedures; and • Chance find procedures and on-call archaeologists. 6.6.4 Cultural heritage baseline context 6.6.4.1 Site Location, Palaeontology and Palaeoclimate Geology, topography and soils The Project is located in Navoi Region, Karmana district. It is located in a relatively arid pastoral area verging on the Kyzylkum Desert, c.3.7km south of the Zarafshan River. The Aktau and Nuratau Mountains rise c. 25km to the north. The eastern and western boundaries of the block of land in which the Site lies are formed by irrigation channels of the Zarafshan River. The fertile Zarafshan Valley, located between the Oxus (Amu Darya) and the Jaxartes (Syr Darya), has long been a key communication corridor across central Eurasia, through an arid landscape characterised by agricultural oases. A number of limestone springs (kuturbulak) are present to the south of the site, south of M37 road. At this stage it is not known if these are a viable source of water for the Project. The Site is located immediately north of part of the Silk Roads trading route between Bukhara and Samarkand, which broadly followed the course of the M37 road. Prior to the construction of large-scale irrigation canals in the 20th century, the sedentary population cultivated fertile land close to the river or oases at Bukhara, c.60km to the west and Samarkand, c.175km to the east. Historically, intermediate areas of desert and semi-desert, such as the Site, were used by pastoral nomads. The geology of the Site, and the plains of the Zarafshan Valley, comprise deep deposits of Quaternary alluvial and wind-blown deposits, deluvial downhill flood outwash and proluvial mudflow accumulations. These were deposited in four main erosion and accumulation cycles – the Nanaian (Lower Quaternary), Tashkentian (Middle Quaternary), Golodnostepian (Upper Quaternary) and Syrdarinian (Holocene). These form a series of river terraces along the river valley, parts of which have been eroded out and exposed by channels of the Zarafshan River, and correspond to the Lower, Middle and Upper Pleistocene) 28 . Although there are Cretaceous outcrops in the Nurata Mountains and earlier potentially fossiliferous deposits in the immediate vicinity of Navoi, the Site has very limited palaeontological potential and this aspect has therefore been scoped out of assessment. 6.6.4.2 Previous archaeological investigations An archaeological survey of the Zarafshan Valley was undertaken in the 1930s and 1940s, identifying ancient, early medieval and medieval sites 29 . Large-scale studies of the Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments in the lower reaches of the valley were carried out in the 1950s and 1960s 30 . These studies focussed on known areas of 28 Kostenko, N. P. (1958). Geomorfologicheskij analiz rechnyh dolin gornyh stran (The geomorphological analysis of mountain river valleys). Bulleten Komissii po izucheniyu chetvertichnogo perioda 22: 73-90; Szymczak, K. 2000. Kuturbulak Revisited. A Middle Palaeolithic Site in Zeravshan River Valley, Uzbekistan. Swiatowit Supplement Series P: Prehistory and Middle Ages, II. Central Asia Prehistoric Studies, I. Institute of Archaeology, Warsaw University. 29 Yakubovsky, A. Yu. (1950) Itogi rabot Tadžikskoj arheologičeskoj èkspedicii za 1948-1950 gg (Results of the work of the Tajik archaeological expedition for 1948-1950). Materials and Studies in the Archaeology of the USSR. No. 15, 9-20; Yakubovsky, A. Yu. (ed.) (1950) Trudy’ Sogdiysko-Tadjikskoy arheologicheskoy e`kspedicii (Proceedings of the Sogd-Tajik Archaeological expedition). Vol. 1. 1946– 1947. Moscow; Leningrad: Academy of Sciences of the USSR. 30 Gulyamov Ja.G., Islamov U., Askarov, A.A. (1966) Pervobytnaja kulʹtura i vozniknovenie orošaemogo zemledelija v nizovʹjah Zarafšana (The primitive culture and the emergence of irrigated agriculture in the lower reaches of Zarafshan). Tashkent; Askarov, A. 1962. Pamjatniki Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 112 Figure 6-33: Remains of Fortress at Hazora Source: McAlister (2020). Site visit photos March 2020. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 113 Figure 6-34: OHL Tower built on the remains of the fortress wall Source: McAlister (2020). Site visit photos March 2020. Soviet period (1920 – 1991) and Independence (1991–present) In 1920, the Red Army captured Bukhara and extinguished the khanate of Bukhara. The Uzbek S.S.R. (now Uzbekistan) was created in 1924. Traditional pastoral nomadism was virtually abolished by Soviet forced collectivisation in the 1920s and 1930s. Irrigation projects were undertaken along the Zarafshan Valley to colonise the steppe and develop intensive cotton monoculture. Navoi City was founded in 1958 adjacent to the historic Silk Road settlement of Karman. Navoi was a gold and uranium mining centre, with a smelting plant in the area of Karman village. Uzbekistan declared independence from the U.S.S.R. in 1991. The site location is indicated in red. Overhead power lines cross the south of the site. It appears to show a vineyard at Uzumzor [Узумзор] to the east; the place name means ‘vineyard’ in Uzbek. Known cultural heritage assets in the vicinity of the Site 6.6.4.4 Tangible Cultural Heritage Archaeological Sites The Project site has not been subject to archaeological field survey. The wider area has not been subject to substantial or recent archaeological field research. A review of the known archaeology and history of the wider Project area indicates that there is low potential for the presence of Palaeolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic material. Throughout the later prehistoric, antique and medieval periods, it is likely that this semi-arid desert area was populated by mobile herders. There is some potential for the presence of stray finds (casual losses), travellers’ campsites and for burial mounds (kurgan). Any terrestrial archaeological remains within the Project Area are likely to comprise: • In situ surface scatters or features identified on bare ground. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 114 • Surface scatters identified in areas of disturbed ground or in up-cast spoil from groundworks. • Buried features, which may have moderate depth and complexity. The visibility of sites may be hampered by burial under wind-blown sands. Natural Features and Tangible Objects with Cultural Values Unique natural features or tangible objects that embody cultural values, such as sacred plants, rocks and watercourses can be significant aspects of cultural landscapes. Interviews with local communities do not indicate the presence of any natural features and tangible objects with cultural values. 6.6.4.5 Intangible Cultural Heritage Intangible cultural heritage is defined as the practices, representations, expressions, as well as the knowledge and skills (including instruments, objects, artefacts, cultural spaces), that communities, groups and, in some cases, individuals recognised as part of their cultural heritage. It is sometimes called living cultural heritage and includes oral traditions and expressions, including language; performing arts; social practices, rituals and festive events; knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe; and traditional craftsmanship (UNESCO, 2003). UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage Uzbekistan’s entries on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity comprise: • Khorazm dance, Lazgi (2019). The movements of the dance reflect the sounds and movements of nature, flora and fauna. It is performed during national holidays and folk festivities and during community and family events. • Margilan Crafts Development Centre, safeguarding of the atlas and adras making traditional silk textile production technologies (Register of Good Safeguarding Practices; 2017). • NavUzbekistan New Year, March 21 (2016). A variety of rituals, ceremonies and other cultural events take place for a period of about two weeks. • Palov culture and tradition (2016). Palov is a traditional dish of rice, meat, spices and vegetables. • Askiya, the art of wit (2014). Askiya is often performed in folk celebrations, festivities, family-related rituals and get-togethers. • Katta Ashula (2009). A type of traditional song that forms part of the identity of various peoples of the Ferghana Valley. • Cultural space of Boysun District (2008). The Boysun District located in south-eastern Uzbekistan on the route from Asia Minor to India, is one of the oldest inhabited areas of Central Asia. With the diminishing importance of the Silk Road and the political changes in Central Asia, the region became quite isolated, which favoured the preservation of ancient traditions that show traces of several religions, including shamanistic beliefs, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism and Islam. • Shashmaqom music (2008). The classical music tradition of Shashmaqom has evolved in the urban centres of present-day Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, fusing vocal and instrumental music, melodic and rhythmic idioms and poetry. Its origins date back to the pre-Islamic era. It is not assessed that the continuation and transmission of any entries on the Representative List would be impacted by the Project. Local intangible cultural heritage activities Local crafts related to intangible heritage include silk production and weaving, rug and carpet-making and motifs; ceramics and varnished miniatures; wood-carving; metal chasing and embossing; silk and gold embroidery and tapestry; the Uzbek language; and culinary traditions. Religious practices in the locality comprise Muslim 88% (mostly Sunni), Eastern Orthodox 9%, other 3%. Uzbekistan has experienced a resurgence in religious practice since the 1980s, with increased activities of religious schools, neighbourhood mosques and religious orders. The surrounding area has a number of Islamic Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 115 centres with their maktabs (primary schools) and madrasahs (seminaries) organized and supported by Muslim religious educators and their followers. The town of Hazora, c.5km northeast of the Project, is the focus of pilgrimages to the Mavlono Orif Deggaroni Complex. The Mavlono Orif Deggaroni Mosque and Complex, are State Registered architectural monuments (Navoi Region State Register Architectural Monument No. 44 & 52), but no particular intangible heritage elements are designated or registered. The Mavlono Orif Deggaroni complex is associated with the Naqshbandi, a major Sunni spiritual order of Sufism, an active movement of international significance. There are no associations with particular innovations, technical or scientific development. 6.6.4.6 Critical Cultural Heritage Critical Cultural Heritage is defined as internationally recognized or legally protected cultural heritage areas, including proposed World Heritage Sites, or the heritage of communities who use, or have used within living memory the cultural heritage (IFC, 2012). The Project site itself does not contain any internationally recognized or legally protected cultural heritage areas. Immediately south of the Project, the M37 road broadly follows the course of the Silk Roads, a Tentative List World Heritage Site (Ref. 5500). About 5km northeast of the Project site is the village of Hazora, site of the Malono Orif Deggaroni Mosque and Complex (Nos. 44 & 52), associated with the mentor of the founder of the Sufi Naqshband order and the site of pilgrimages. Community Use of Cultural Heritage A cemetery is located south of the Mavlono Orif Deggaroni Complex at Hazora (State Register Architectural Monument No. 52) [4.60km to NNE of Project: 40° 9'3.34"N 65° 0'44.04"E]. It is not clear whether the cemetery is included in this designation, and/or is subject to separate protection under statute law, religious law or customary practice. Potential Significance of Archaeological Remains No internationally recognised or legally protected cultural heritage areas have been identified within the Study Area. The Study Area has moderate potential to contain significant, stratigraphically intact archaeological remains; any remains present may have been impacts by erosion caused by physical, climatic and chemical weathering. It is anticipated that any superficial or buried archaeological sites within the Project area are likely to be classed according to IFC criteria as ‘replicable cultural heritage’ (IFC, 2012), and can be mitigated by appropriate archaeological investigation, recording and dissemination. Internationally Recognised Cultural Heritage Areas World Heritage properties Uzbekistan has four cultural sites inscribed on the World Heritage List. The nearest is the Historic Centre of Bukhara (inscription date: 1993; ref: 602bis). Bukhara, which is situated on the Silk Route, is more than 2,000 years old. It is the most complete example of a medieval city in Central Asia, with an urban fabric that has remained largely intact. Monuments of particular interest include the famous tomb of Ismail Samani, a masterpiece of 10thcentury Muslim architecture, and a large number of 17th-century madrasas. Bukhara is located c. 60km southwest of the Site. Given its distance from the Site, the Project will not impact upon it. Tentative List World Heritage Sites A Tentative List is an inventory of those properties which each State Party intends to consider for nomination to the World Heritage List. There is one cultural Tentative List World Heritage Site located within or in the vicinity of the Study Area: • Silk Roads Sites in Uzbekistan (Ref. 5500) facilitated trade in silk and materials such as precious metals and stones, ceramics, perfumes, ornamental woods, and spices in return for cotton and wool textiles, glass, wine, amber, carpets and horses. This trade was sustained by a system of caravanserais, commercial settlements, trade cities and forts, spreading ideas, scientific and technological developments. Components in the vicinity of the Project include the Rabati Malik caravanserai, the Vobkent Minaret, and sites in Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 116 Karmana including the Mir-Sayid Bakhrom Mausoleum and Qosim Sheikh complex. The course of the M37 road immediately south of the Site, between Bukhara and Samarkand, follows the course of the Silk Roads. Table 6-6 Internationally Recognised Cultural Heritage Areas in the vicinity of the Project International designation UNESCO Reference No. State Register State Register No. Description Distance from Site Latitude (N) DMS Longitude (E) DMS World Heritage State Party Tentative List TL Ref. 5500 Architectural/ Archaeological monuments Var Silk Roads Sites in Uzbekistan 0.2km to S In vicinity of Project, broadly aligned with route of M37 road World Heritage State Party Tentative List TL Ref. 5308 Architectural Monument No. 43 Caravanserai Malikrabot. Date: 11th century. «Sardoba» MFY. Karmana District. 12.35km to E 40° 7' 21.86’’N 65° 8’ 53.75’’E Architectural Monument No. 42 Sardoba Malikrabot (Well). Date: 11th century. «Sardoba» MFY. Karmana District. 12.40km to E 40° 7’ 16.54’’N 65° 8’ 48.95’’E Archaeological monuments No. 30 Raboti-Maliktepa (Bekmehmontepa). Date: 6th – 12th century. Sardoba. Karmana District. c.12km to E Uncertain U Legally Protected Cultural Heritage Areas State Register sites located in the vicinity of the Study Area are presented in Table 6-7. None of these protected areas are located within the Project area, and the Project would not impact upon them. Table 6-7 Extract from the State Register sites on the National List of Immovable Property of the Intangible Cultural Heritage – Navoi Region, Karmana District & Kyzyltepa District State No. Name of the object Date Address Right to real estate Distance from Site Latitude (N) DMS Longitude (E) DMS Archaeological monuments 20. Diggaron Indetermin ate Hazora microdistrict, Katagan village State property. Navoi Regional Cultural Heritage Department based on the right of operative management. 5.15km to NNE 40° 9'19.61"N 65° 0'41.21"E 30. Raboti-Maliktepa (Bekmehmontep a) 6th – 12th Century Sardoba State Property. Navoi Regional Cultural Heritage Department based on the right of operative management. c.12km to E U U 33. Hazora 6th – 11th centuries “Hazora” (Toshrabot) MFY, Livestock village State property. Navoi Regional Cultural Heritage Department based on the right of operative management U U U 76. Kitirbulok Tepe (Round Hill) Not specified “Dul dul” MFY, Duldul village State property. Navoi Regional Cultural Heritage Department 10.5km to NE 40°10'39.50" N 65° 4'41.55"E Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 117 State No. Name of the object Date Address Right to real estate Distance from Site Latitude (N) DMS Longitude (E) DMS based on the right of operative management 134. Ganchtepa (Toshrabot-2) Early Middle Ages Hasancha MFY, Saribosh village State property. Navoi Regional Cultural Heritage Department based on the right of operative management 7.70km to NW 40° 9'1.29"N 64°53'30.82" E 135. Dormontepa Not specified “Bobodogo” MF, Durmenanta rural area State property. Navoi Regional Cultural Heritage Department based on the right of operative management. 7.05km to N 40°11'2.55" N 64°58'48.41" E Architectural monuments 42. Sardoba Malikrabot (Well) 11th century “Sardoba” MFY State property. Navoi Regional Cultural Heritage Department based on the right of operative management. 12.40km to E 40° 7'16.54"N 65° 8'48.95"E 43. Caravanserai Malikrabot 11th century “Sardoba” MFY State property. Navoi Regional Cultural Heritage Department based on the right of operative management. 12.35km to E 40° 7'21.86"N 65° 8'53.75"E 44. Mavlono Orif Deggaroni Mosque 11th century “Hazora” MF, Katagon rural settlement State property. Navoi Regional Cultural Heritage Department based on the right of operative management. The foundation is attached to the charitable public foundation on a free use agreement. 5.10km to NNE 40° 9'18.52"N 65° 0'39.05"E 52. Mavlono Orif Deggaroni Complex 11th century “Hazora” MF, Katagon rural settlement State property. Navoi Regional Cultural Heritage Department based on the right of operative management. The foundation is attached to the charitable public foundation on a free use agreement. 4.9km to NNE 40° 9'13.55"N 65° 0'44.87"E Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 118 Figure 6-35 Location of known cultural heritage sites in the vicinity of the Project 6.7 Socio-economic Conditions 6.7.1 Introduction The proposed project site is located in the Navoi Region, the largest of Uzbekistan’s 12 regions (111.09 km2), situated in the central north/northwest of the country. The Project is located approximately 30 km west from the town of Navoi (the regional) administrative capital in the Navoi District (also called Karmana). Navoi District is one of the eight districts forming the Navoi Region. It lies south of the region and is directly bordering the districts of Kyzyltepa, Navbakhor, Kanimekh, Khatyrchi, and Nurata. Navoi District is also adjacent to the region of Samarkand and within it, to Pakhtachi District. The closest residential areas identified around the Project are the village of Uzumzor (2.6 km east from the site boundary), and a small residential cluster (2.2 km south from the site boundary). The area is characterised by desert conditions, with irrigated land and the Zarafshan river located approximately 4.3 km north from the site. 6.7.2 Economy Uzbekistan is a lower middle-income country, defined by the World Bank as economies with a GNI per capita between $1,026 and $3,995 USD 42 . The Uzbekistani Som (UZS) is the currency of Uzbekistan – as of 5 March 2020, $1 USD was equal to 9,513.84 UZS 43 . According to the IMF, in 2019, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Uzbekistan was at $60.490 billion USD 44 . Navoi Region occupies the fourth place of contribution to the formation of the GDP of Uzbekistan, with a share of 7.2% – just below the neighbouring Samarkand Region (7.3%). Navoi Region has the fourth largest GDP of Uzbekistan (36,685.2 billion UZS) and the largest GDP per capita, at 37,119.5 thousand UZS. 42 World Bank (2019). World Bank Country and Lending Groups – World Bank Data Help Desk. [online] Worldbank.org. Available at: https://datahelpdesk.worldbank.org/knowledgebase/articles/906519-world-bank-country-and-lending-groups [Accessed 5 Mar. 2020]. 43 Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan (n.d.). Ўзбекистон Республикаси Марказий банки — Бош саҳифа. [online] www.cbu.uz. Available at: http://www.cbu.uz/uzc/ [Accessed 5 Mar. 2020]. 44 International Monetary Fund (2019). World Economic Outlook Database October 2019. [online] Imf.org. Available at: https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/2019/02/weodata/index.aspx [Accessed 5 Mar. 2020]. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 119 The national GDP composition by sector of origin is split between agriculture (28.1%), industry (36.4%) and services (35.5%). Comparing the changes in the structure of the economy between 2017 and 2019 shows a 30% increase in the share of the industrial sector and a decrease of 28.1% in the share of agricultural sector. Navoi Region is characterised by its large industrial sector relative to other regions and the country. In 2019, Navoi Region held the largest share for industry (66.8%) within the sectoral structure of the regional GDP – or GRP. Correspondingly, it also held the smallest share recorded for agriculture (16.7%) and services (12%). Navoi Region is mportant in terms of industrial contribution to the economy of the country, estimating it at 10% of the total industrial production. The soil of Navoi Region is rich in precious metal and, as such, is home to important mining, chemical and energy industries. Navoi International Airport is also the largest air cargo terminal in Central Asia. Noteworthy, the entire Navoi Region was designated as a free economic zone (FEZ) following the enactment of a Presidential Decree. The main goals of this decision are to attract direct investment to create innovative, high-tech, export-oriented and import-substituting enterprises producing high value-added products, as well as to develop transport and other infrastructure of the region to turn it into a major logistics centre. In order to finance relevant investment projects, the Ministry of Investments and Foreign Trade together with commercial banks have been instructed to develop proposals for attracting credit lines from international financial institutions and foreign export credit agencies. 45 There is little data available at the Navoi/Karmana District level. According to the Navoi Region website, large industrial enterprises based in the district include CJSC Navoi TPP (electricity and isotope energy generation) and spare parts, THAEL POLYMER Synthesis JV (polymer products), JV "Kar-Rig trans" (transport services), JV "Gypsum Products" (production of building materials). Data related to agricultural production is available at the district level. Table 9 below shows agricultural production in tons, units or heads for Navoi Region and Navoi/Karmana District, as well as the contribution of the district to the total regional production. A large proportion of eggs, poultry and vegetables produced regionally originate from the district. Table 6-8: Agricultural products in Navoi Region and Navoi/Karmana District, 2018 46 Products Navoi Region Karmana District % District in Region Tons Meat (in live weight) 159,674 17,964 11.3 Milk 477,797 66,051 13.8 Honey 1,008 103 10.2 Wool 4,079 303 7.4 Cocoon raw material 801 75 9.4 Cotton 83,025 14,808 17.8 Grain 214,433 26,988 12.6 Potatoes 76,851 8,619 11.2 Vegetables 274,645 54,214 19.7 Melons 88,119 9,510 10.8 Fruits 100,417 10,399 10.4 Grapes 76,933 4,486 5.8 Units Eggs (per thousand) 276,584 74,514 26.9 Leather skin 261,474 7,824 3.0 45 Dentons (2019). Uzbekistan has declared its largest region a free economic zone. [online] www.dentons.com. Available at: https://www.dentons.com/en/insights/alerts/2019/may/28/uzbekistan-has-declared-its-largest-region-a-free-economic-zone [Accessed 5 Mar. 2020]. 46 State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Statistics (n.d.). Diagramma va grafiklar. [online] stat.uz. Available at: https://stat.uz/uz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5742&catid=2&lang=uk-UA [Accessed 5 Mar. 2020]. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 120 Products Navoi Region Karmana District % District in Region Head Cattle 484,036 59,498 12.3 including: cows 199,549 22,391 11.2 Sheep and goats 2,060,239 116,996 5.7 Horses 17,878 407 2.3 Poultry of all kinds 2,595,191 706,295 27.2 During the meeting organised with local institutional stakeholders, the representative from the local Council (Uzumzor) reported that the local economy, regarding Uzumzor as well as the residential cluster at the south, relies mostly on agricultural activities, in particular cotton and wheat. Although evidence shows that the region is characterised by its industrial sector, preliminary sites visits have identified the agricultural nature of the local economy around Uzumzor. Further research and site visits will confirm this information and will need to further investigate the weight of the industrial sector and its composition. 6.7.3 Population According to stat.uz 47 , there are 34,022,853 inhabitants as of 28 February 2020. Figure 6-36 below provides information regarding the age distribution of the population of Uzbekistan. The majority of the population (64%) is aged below 35 years-old while those over 35 account for 36%. The 0-4 age group is the largest among all age groups, which may indicate a high birth rate. In terms of gender distribution, the country has slightly more males (50.2%) than females (49.8%). 47 State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Statistics (n.d.). Permanent population number. [online] stat.uz. Available at: https://stat.uz/en/open-data/2-uncategorised/7163-o-zbekiston-aholisi-en [Accessed 5 Mar. 2020]. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 121 Figure 6-36: Population distribution by age – Uzbekistan 48 The Navoi Region has a population 992,500 49 (as of 1 October 2019), or about 3% of the whole population of Uzbekistan. This figure is almost equally split between the urban (483,300) and rural (509,200) population. Navoi is the second least populated region of Uzbekistan after Syrdarya. Within the region, the population of Navoi/Karmana District is estimated to represent around 129,300 50 people. Approximately 700 residents were identified in the vicinity of the Project according to the ESSR (600 in Uzumzor and 100 in the residential cluster). The availability of population and age distribution data is limited at the local level. However, current and future site visits will confirm these figures. Density 51 With the lowest density relative to the countrywide average density of 72.2 people per sq. km, Navoi Region, home to the Kyzylkum Desert, has a population density of 8.6 people per sq. km. However, the Navoi/Karmana District itself has a density of 129.9 people per sq. km, a discrepancy in part explained by the presence of the administrative regional capital, Navoi (density of 2,712 people per. sq. km), within the district, pushing the average upwards. Outside of the capital, the rest of the district is then likely to be as sparsely populated as the region. Ethnic composition As can be seen in Figure 6-37 below, the population of Uzbekistan comprises a majority of Uzbeks (80%), as well as other ethnic minorities i.e. Tajiks, Kazakhs, Russians and Karakalpaks. However, there are some controversies 48 State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Statistics (n.d.). Population distribution by age – Total. [online] Stat.uz. Available at: http://web.stat.uz/open_data/data.php?value=1.1%20Population_eng_total.xlsx&lang=en [Accessed 5 Mar. 2020]. 49 State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Statistics (n.d.). The number of urban and rural population by region. [online] Stat.uz. Available at: http://web.stat.uz/open_data/data.php?value=13.3%20The%20nuber%20of%20urban%20and%20rurel%20population%20by%20region.xls x&lang=en [Accessed 5 Mar. 2020]. 50 Navoi region official website (n.d.). Навоий вилояти ҳокимлиги. [online] www.navoi.uz. Available at: http://www.navoi.uz/uz/menu/karmana-tumani-hokimligi [Accessed 5 Mar. 2020]. 51 State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Statistics (n.d.). Diagramma va grafiklar. [online] stat.uz. Available at: https://stat.uz/uz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5742&catid=2&lang=uk-UA [Accessed 5 Mar. 2020]. 5.6% 5.0% 4.4% 3.9% 4.6% 4.9% 4.5% 3.6% 3.0% 2.7% 2.3% 2.1% 1.5% 0.9% 0.4% 0.3% 0.2% 0.1% 5.1% 4.6% 4.2% 3.7% 4.4% 4.7% 4.5% 3.6% 3.1% 2.8% 2.5% 2.3% 1.7% 1.1% 0.5% 0.4% 0.3% 0.3% 0-4 5-9 10-14 15-19 20-24 25-29 30-34 35-39 40-44 45-49 50-54 55-59 60-64 65-69 70-74 75-79 80-84 85 and elder Female Male Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 128 • Cross into Uzbekistan and turn right at Chinaz to join the M39. • Continue west for 5km, bearing right to continue on the M-39. • Continue on the M-39 crossing back into Kazakhstan for 10km before reaching Samarkand – 150km. • On reaching Samarkand turn right onto the M37 and continue to Navoi – 200km • Continue on the M37 from Navoi to the junction to the unmarked road to Uzumzor. • After 1 km take a right on the next junction on the unmarked road to the site entrance. Figure 6-38: View in the direction of the project site along the M37 6.8.2.2 Road Description National Road A353 The road was not visited as part of the preliminary ESIA visit in March 2020. However, it is understood to be dual carriageway at least in sections and is used by HGV traffic. It is deemed suitable to use for delivery purposes and can accommodate HGV traffic. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 129 National Road A3 The road was not visited as part of the preliminary ESIA visit in March 2020. However, it is understood to be dual carriageway at least in sections and is used by HGV traffic. It is deemed suitable to use for delivery purposes and can accommodate HGV traffic. National Road A2 The road was not visited as part of the preliminary ESIA visit in March 2020. However, it is understood to be dual carriageway at least in sections and is used by HGV traffic. It is deemed suitable to use for delivery purposes and can accommodate HGV traffic. M39 Highway The road was not visited as part of the preliminary ESIA visit in March 2020. However, it is understood to be dual carriageway at least in sections and is used by HGV traffic. It is deemed suitable to use for delivery purposes and can accommodate HGV traffic. M37 Highway The M37 is dual carriageway between Navoi and the site. The road is used by HGV traffic and is the main road between Samarkand, Navoi and Bukhara. This is considered the most suitable road to use for delivery purposes and is deemed suitable of accommodating delivery HGV traffic. Minor Road to Site The Project site is accessed from the M37 via a short stretch of minor road. Further grading of this road may be required for larger vehicles to access the site. Most of the road does not allow for vehicular travel faster than 40 km / hr. The road is generally wide enough to allow for two vehicles to travel in opposite directions, however the road conditions would typically require vehicles to go on a narrower shared pathway. 6.8.3 Road Safety Both Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have relatively poor road safety records. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) Road Safety Report, 2018 63 , in 2016, there were 17.6 deaths per 100,000 population in Kazakhstan with the greatest proportion of these being drivers (60%) then pedestrians (31%). However, fatalities have more than halved in the past 10 years. In Uzbekistan, there were 11.5 deaths per 100,000 population which has increased slightly since 2007. 6.8.4 Roads Sensitivity Analysis Table 6-16 sets out the level of sensitivity of the different sections of roads along the proposed route considering the type of road, current traffic volumes and the presence of any sensitive receptors. Table 6-16: Sensitivity Analysis Road Receptor Details Sensitivity Road A353 (Kazakhstan) Paved highway with medium daily traffic flows. Passing residential and commercial areas. Minimal traffic management measures in place. Highway suitable for all types of vehicles and volumes. Low 63 World Health Organization (2018). Global Status Report on Road Safety 2018. Geneva: World Health Organization. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 6 Environmental and Social Baseline Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 130 Road Receptor Details Sensitivity Road A3 (Kazakhstan) Paved dual carriageway road with moderate daily traffic flows. Passing residential and commercial areas. Minimal traffic management measures in place. Highway suitable for all types of vehicles and volumes. Low Route A2 (Kazakhstan) Paved highway with moderate daily traffic flows. Passing residential and commercial areas. Minimal traffic management measures in place. Highway suitable for all types of vehicles and volumes. Low M39 (Uzbekistan) Paved dual carriageway road with moderate daily traffic flows. Passing residential and commercial areas. Minimal traffic management measures in place. Road suitable for and regularly used by HGVs Low M37 (Uzbekistan) Paved highway with moderate daily traffic flows. Recently upgraded and rehabilitated. Minor traffic management measures in place. Roads suitable for and regularly used by HGVs. Low 6.8.5 Rail Transport The railway shipments are all containerized. Goods will be loaded at the Xi'an Xinzhu Railway Station warehouse, China and the arrival point will be Tashkent Chukursay Station. The containers are then transported to the project site using customs supervision vehicles. The empty containers are returned to Tashkent. The "Chang'an" train runs from Xi'an to Horgos Port, covering a total distance of 3,200km. It passes through three railway bureaus and 10 marshalling stations and arrives at Horgos Port within three days. On leaving China, the railway transportation route is 1,600km in total, passing through four marshalling stations, the Kazakhstan Railway and Uzbekistan Railway - Almaty, Shimkent, and Tashkent. After reloading at Altynkol Station, the train reaches Chukursay station in Tashkent, where materials are then transferred to the Project site. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 131 7. Preliminary Impact Assessment 7.1 Construction Phase Impacts The assessment has been undertaken in accordance with the criteria set out in Section 4 (Assessment Methodology). The impacts, including magnitude of change, are discussed in further detail below. 7.1.1 Hydrology and Hydrogeology 7.1.1.1 Surface Water There are two permanent surface water bodies on the eastern and western boundaries of the Project site. Furthermore, there are a number of smaller drainage routes eventually draining to the Zarafshan River to the north. The Zarafshan River provides the main source of irrigation across the region. Surface water may be subject to reduction in quality should proper mitigation not be implemented. The irrigation canals adjacent to the site currently provide drinking water for livestock and are used to supply irrigation water for smallholder vegetable farming for local farmers. During construction, earthworks, road construction and use of heavy vehicles could alter surface drainage patterns. The removal of vegetation and compaction of soils will reduce infiltration and surface run-off will increase. The risk is greatest during severe precipitation events; based on rainfall data this is most likely to occur in December. The increased volume of water flowing into drainage channels is likely to cause additional soil erosion. Surface run-off will also contain higher concentrations of suspended sediments during construction than would otherwise be the case. Other potential sources of pollution during construction comprise leaks and spills of oils from machinery and discharge of sanitary waste and wastewater. Impact Assessment: Impacts on surface water during construction Impact Nature Positive Negative Impact is negative because construction activities may generate pollutants that reduce the quality of surface water used by local residents for crops and as a drinking water source for livestock. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible The impact is generally direct and potential sources of pollution to surface water during construction comprise leaks and spills of oils from machinery and discharge of sanitary waste and wastewater which may subsequently run off to nearby surface water bodies. Surface water run-off may have a higher sediment load. The localised nature of spills likely to be experienced can be addressed through standard construction practises including appropriate drainage and containment. Pollution risks will continue during the construction phase. Impact Duration Temporary Short-term Medium-term Long-term Permanent The impact is short-term as construction works are expected to continue for a period of approximately 9-12 months. Impact Extent Local Regional National The impact is expected to occur within the site and run-off from potential spills or sediment would be at a local level only. Chemicals and fuels are not stored in sufficient quantities to result in a spill of regional importance. Receptor Value / Sensitivity Low Medium High The sensitivity of surface water is assessed as medium, recognising the fact that only small number of local residents use these two irrigation canals for vegetable farming and for drinking water for livestock. The irrigation canals are all man made and would provide a significant residence time allowing sediment to settle out prior to discharge back to the Zarafshan River. Impact Magnitude No change Negligible Low Medium High The magnitude of the effect is predicted to be low given the limited area of the Project site in relation to the overall catchment area. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 132 Impact Assessment: Impacts on surface water during construction Impact Significance None Negligible Low Medium Major As a result, the significance of the impact is assessed as low. The extent of reduced surface water quality due to construction activities is considered local, and the duration assessed as being temporary and short-term. A low impact does not require additional mitigation measures to be implemented. Mitigation will involve the implementation of Good International Industry Practise pollution prevention measures. 7.1.1.2 Groundwater There are currently three options being considered to supply water to the Project: direct abstraction from the drainage channel, groundwater well or purchase of water and delivery by truck. Local communities within the vicinity of the Project use the drinking water mains supply for domestic use. Potential sources of pollution to groundwater during construction comprise leaks and spills of oils from machinery and discharge of sanitary waste and wastewater. During construction, sanitary waste will be collected in containers below portable toilets and transported to a registered waste disposal facility for disposal. Storage and handling procedures for oils and other chemicals will be required to minimize risk of pollution. Potential impacts on groundwater include: • Accident/ unplanned event: Groundwater could be contaminated through accidental fuel spills. • Accident/ unplanned event: Depending on the method of waste disposal, impacts could be felt on surface or groundwater, flora and fauna and/ or local communities. Impact Assessment: Impacts on groundwater during construction Impact Nature Positive Negative Impact is negative because construction activities may generate pollutants that reduce the quality of groundwater used by local residents for domestic purposes. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible The impact is generally direct and potential sources of pollution to groundwater during construction comprise leaks and spills of oils from machinery and discharge of sanitary waste and wastewater. The localised nature of spills likely to be experienced can be addressed through standard construction practises including appropriate drainage and containment. Pollution risks will continue during the construction phase. Impact Duration Temporary Short-term Medium-term Long-term Permanent The impact is short-term as construction works are expected to continue for a period of approximately 9-12 months. Impact Extent Local Regional National The impact is expected to occur within the site and run-off from potential spills would be at a local level only. Chemicals and fuels are not stored in sufficient quantities to result in a spill of regional importance. Receptor Value / Sensitivity Low Medium High The sensitivity of groundwater is assessed as medium given reported poor water quality, recognising the fact that local communities do not abstract groundwater for domestic use from boreholes located in surrounding villages. Impact Magnitude No change Very Low Low Medium High The magnitude of the effect is predicted to be low, given that the soil and superficial deposits present in the area are expected to provide protection to the groundwater in the crystalline basement rock. None Negligible Low Moderate High Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 133 Impact Assessment: Impacts on groundwater during construction Impact Significance As a result, the significance of the impact is assessed as low. The extent of reduced groundwater quality due to construction activities is considered local, and the duration assessed as being temporary and short-term. A low impact does not require additional mitigation measures to be implemented. Mitigation in this case will involve the implementation of Good International Industry Practise pollution prevention measures. 7.1.2 Landscape and Visual 7.1.2.1 Receptor Sensitivity Landscape sensitivity to change has been determined by employing professional judgement to combine and analyse the identified value and susceptibility and has been defined with reference to the three-point scale outlined in Table 7-1. Table 7-1. Sensitivity of Landscape Receptors Classification Criteria High Landscape of national or regional value with distinctive elements and characteristics, considered to have a limited ability to absorb the type of change proposed without fundamentally altering the key characteristics. Medium Landscape of regional or local value, or rarity, exhibiting some distinct elements / features, considered tolerant of some degree of the type of change proposed without fundamentally altering the key characteristics. Low Landscape with few distinctive elements / features or valued characteristics and considered tolerant of a large degree of the type of change proposed without fundamentally altering the key characteristics. Visual sensitivity to change has been determined by professional judgement to combine and analyse the identified value and susceptibility and has been defined with reference to the three-point scale outlined in Table 7-2. Table 7-2. Sensitivity of Visual Receptors Classification Criteria High Locations where receptors experience an impressive or well composed view containing few detracting elements, with limited ability to absorb change. Medium Locations where receptors experience a valued view which generally represents a pleasing composition but may include some detracting features and is tolerant of a degree of change. Low Locations where the view is incidental or not important to the receptors and the nature of the view is of limited value or poorly composed with numerous detracting features and is tolerant of a large degree of change. Based on the above criteria, sensitivity of the receptors is summarised in Table 7-3. Table 7-3. Project Landscape and Visual Receptor Sensitivity Receptor Sensitivity Landscape Character Areas LCA01 Low LCA 02 Low LCA 03 Low Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 134 LCA 04 Low Human Receptors Residential receptors Low Recreational receptors Low Highway receptors Low 7.1.2.2 Impacts on Landscape Character and Visual Amenity These include areas for temporary works, construction compounds, access road and on-site roads, areas for solar PV panels, substations and transformer stations, on-site and off-site transmission lines. New machinery and equipment will be introduced into the landscape, including heavy goods vehicles excavators, bulldozers, and other heavy equipment. The main source of impact to the LCTs during operation is the erection of the solar PV panels, and associated foundations, inverters and substation. Other elements of operation of the Project that will affect the landscape comprise: • Off-site features, including power lines that will be supported by transmission poles to transmit electricity from the Project site to the connection point. • On-site roads, including access roads, and occasional vehicles that pass along the roads. • Additional structures at the Control Centre, including the electrically sub-station. Impact Assessment: Impacts on Landscape Character Impact Nature Positive Negative Impact is negative because construction activities will result in additional features within the LCAs. It is assumed that all Project related changes are negative in nature.. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible The impact is generally direct and experienced within 5km of the Project site. The impact will continue for the duration of the Project and is therefore deemed to be irreversible. Impact Duration Temporary Short-term Medium-term Long-term Permanent The construction impact is short-term as construction works are expected to continue for a period of approximately 9-12 months. However impact will continue for the duration of the Project lifetime. Impact Extent Local Regional National It is assessed that only a small proportion of the local landscape will be affected by the presence of construction works, topsoil stripping and bare ground. Receptor Value / Sensitivity Low Medium High The sensitivity this LCT is assessed to be Low as it is not important in a local context, including visitors to the area who generally travel to this region to visit the Deggaron mosque or other sites on the Silk Road. It is noted that the LCT is not designated at the local or national level. The landscape in the wider area is industrialised which determines the overall character of the Navoi region as a whole. Impact Magnitude No change Low Medium High The magnitude of the effect is predicted to be low, as it is unlikely that construction works become the dominant feature in an area already impacted by human activity. Impact Significance None Negligible Low Moderate High As a result, the significance of the impact is assessed as low. Although impacts will be visible in places, the surrounding features such as OHLs and pylons are of a larger scale in height and extent. Therefore, changes can be easily accommodated in all LCTs. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 135 Impact Assessment: Impacts on Visual Amenity Impact Nature Positive Negative Impact is negative because construction activities will result in additional features within the LCAs. It is assumed that all Project related changes are negative in nature.. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible The impact is generally direct and experienced within 5km of the Project site. The impact will continue for the duration of the Project and is therefore deemed to be irreversible. Impact Duration Temporary Short-term Medium-term Long-term Permanent The construction impact is short-term as construction works are expected to continue for a period of approximately 9-12 months. However, impact will continue for the duration of the Project lifetime. Impact Extent Local Regional National It is assessed that the views experienced will include OHLs and pylons, roads, substation and other man made structures which reduce the quality of the views experienced. Receptor Value / Sensitivity Low Medium High The sensitivity of all VPs are assessed to be Low as they are not important in a local or regional context, including visitors to the area who generally travel to this region to visit the Deggaron mosque or other sites on the Silk Road. As noted, the landscape in the wider area is industrialised which determines the context of the views experienced. Impact Magnitude No change Low Medium High The magnitude of the effect is predicted to be low, given that the soil and superficial deposits present in the area are expected to provide protection to the groundwater in the crystalline basement rock. Impact Significance None Negligible Low Moderate High As a result, the significance of the impact is assessed as low. Although impacts will be visible in places, the surrounding features are often of a larger scale in height and extent. Therefore, changes can be easily accommodated in all LCTs. Views from the M37 will be transient in nature and again dominated by exiting vertical features in this location. 7.1.3 Biodiversity 7.1.3.1 Avifauna Construction impacts are likely to include habitat loss as well as disturbance impacts in the Project and adjacent areas. However, the degraded nature of the Project site and the relatively small number of birds encountered mean that there is not likely to be a significant impact on resident bird species. Large avifaunal species utilise large tree species and these are not present within the PV area of the site, thus the Project is not expected to affect successful breeding of local large bird species (such as raptors). Habitat loss associated with construction is unlikely to result in a significant impact to migrating birds as no major attractant features (e.g. lakes / wetlands) will be lost. As a result, there are not anticipated to be any impacts on resting or stopover sites for migrating birds. Impact Assessment: Impacts on ornithology during construction Impact Nature Positive Negative Impact is negative because construction activities may result in habitat loss and disturbance. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible The impact is generally direct as habitat will be lost through construction activities (e.g. ground clearance to accommodate infrastructure), this could include direct destruction or damage to bird nests. In addition, disturbance caused by construction activities may directly displace birds from breeding sites and/or foraging areas. Temporary Short-term Medium-term Long-term Permanent Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 136 Impact Assessment: Impacts on ornithology during construction Impact Duration The impact is permanent as there would be an irreversible change to the baseline within the Project site for the lifetime of the Project. Displacement impacts are temporary and short-term as construction works are expected to continue for a period of approximately 9 months. Impact Extent Local Regional National The impact is expected to occur within the site. No designated sites are in proximity to the site. There is potential for a number of species of conservation concern to frequent the area of the proposed project however this is deemed unlikely. Receptor Value / Sensitivity Low Medium High The PV footprint is highly disturbed and thus it is considered unlikely to support a rich avian community. There is the potential for a number of species of conservation concern to frequent the area of the proposed project however this is deemed unlikely. Sensitivity is determined as Low. Impact Magnitude No change Negligible Low Medium High The magnitude of the effect is predicted to be Medium given the area of the Project site that will require to be cleared and / or disturbed. Impact Significance None Negligible Low Medium High As a result, the impact is assessed as minor and not significant, however it is recommended standard mitigation measures are implemented to ensure impacts remain minimal. 7.1.3.2 Terrestrial Ecology Potential impacts on flora and fauna arising during construction comprise: • Direct loss of vegetation and habitat (including food sources). • Direct loss of fauna during construction activities. • Indirect impacts associated with pollution. • Disturbance of fauna from presence of people, machinery, traffic, and noise, both within and outside of the Project area. Areas of habitat and flora will be lost due to construction activities and in particular due to earthworks for the substation and invertor buildings, solar PV foundations and electrical transmission connections; on-site construction roads and construction of off-site access road and power transmission line. The natural vegetation at the Project site has been substantially altered by human activities, especially farming and irrigation. Due to the high level of anthropogenic disturbance to the natural vegetation and limited diversity on the Project site, there is little natural ecosystem function demonstrated by the site and it is therefore not considered a sensitive area. Much of the existing vegetation will be removed during construction to minimise shading and improve energy yield. Impact Assessment: Impacts on terrestrial ecology during construction Impact Nature Positive Negative Impact is negative because construction activities may result in habitat loss and disturbance. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible The impact is generally direct as habitat will be lost through construction activities (e.g. removal of habitat to accommodate infrastructure), this could include direct destruction of flora or damage to fauna habitat. In addition, disturbance caused by construction activities may directly displace / disturb fauna. Construction vehicles and excavated areas can pose a risk of death or injury to fauna. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 137 Impact Assessment: Impacts on terrestrial ecology during construction Impact Duration Temporary Short-term Medium-term Long-term Permanent The impact is permanent as there would be an irreversible change to the baseline within the Project site for the lifetime of the Project. Displacement impacts are temporary and short-term as construction works are expected to continue for a period of approximately 9 months. Impact Extent Local Regional National The impact is expected to occur within the site. No designated sites are in proximity to the site. There is potential for a number of species of conservation concern to frequent the area of the proposed project however this is deemed unlikely. Receptor Value / Sensitivity Low Medium High The abundance and diversity of terrestrial fauna was found to be low. A single species of conservation concern was recorded: Central Asian tortoise (IUCN VU). However, there is no reasonable likelihood that the tortoise population occurring within the Project site is of regional importance. The sensitivity of the terrestrial habitat has been precautionary assigned as Medium and this assessment is based on the IUCN (VU) status fo Central Asian tortoise. Other plant and animal species recorded during the AECOM are not of conservation concern however this will be confirmed following the further ecological surveys which are programmed for late June 2020. Impact Magnitude No change Negligible Low Medium High The magnitude of the effect is predicted to be Medium given the area of the Project site that will require to be cleared and / or disturbed. Impact Significance None Negligible Low Medium High As a result, the impact is assessed as Medium and significant. As a result a suite of both standard mitigation measures and species specific mitigation measures will be implemented to ensure impacts are reduced to Low significance or below. 7.1.4 Geology and Soils 7.1.4.1 General The main impact on soils during construction will be the potential for soil contamination from spills and leaks and increase in vulnerability to erosion. Soil compaction and loss of limited vegetation present increases in the soils’ vulnerability to erosion. Soils will be particularly vulnerable during the spring snowmelt, when vehicle traffic is likely to cause the greatest damage. Where roads are un-surfaced, rutting and gully erosion eventually make the roads impassable so that vehicles drive off the track and the area affected by erosion continually widens. The following types of construction activity could lead to potential soil erosion: • Vehicle traffic along dirt tracks used during construction of onand off-site roads, power lines, control centre and solar panels will cause soil compaction. • Off-road vehicle traffic will damage vegetation and cause soil compaction. • Any vegetation and some soil will be removed for the control centre, solar panel foundations, transmission towers, and both onand off-site roads. • The use of heavy equipment will cause soil compaction if used outside designated roads. • Soil erosion from increased water run-off, can cause sediment release to nearby water bodies. • Ability of soils to support foundations. Soil compaction and loss of limited vegetation present increases in the soils’ vulnerability to erosion. Soils will be particularly vulnerable during the rainy seasons, when vehicle traffic is likely to cause the greatest damage. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 144 Impact Assessment: Increased local employment, capacity building and supply demand the project from increased household income, significant adverse impacts can occur if the local recruitment process is not adequately managed. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible The impact is both direct and indirect. Individuals and their household members will benefit from increased income and from training and skill development opportunities. Nur Navoi will also pay taxes during the purchase of materials and services and generate indirect economic opportunities as Project suppliers procure materials and services from their own internal supply chain networks. The increased demand for business-to-business services to small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) will generate increased revenue in the AoI, resulting in higher turnover for the small to medium enterprises involved. The impact is reversible as it will only continue during the construction phase. Impact Duration Short-term Medium-term Long-term Very Long-term The impact is short-term as construction works are expected to continue for a period of approximately 9-12 months. Potentially, living standards and training provided can have longer term durations. Experience has shown in similar projects that short-term employment provides an opportunity for households to pay off their debts, invest in the quality of their housing and increase access to education amongst young people. Impact Extent Local Regional National The impact is expected to occur at a regional level. Impact Magnitude Negligible Low Medium High The impact magnitude is low because the total capital expenditure incurred during construction is expected to be a small contribution to the annual regional and City economic output. Local hiring could also have a perceptible change in local household living standards. Receptor Value / Sensitivity Negligible Low Medium High The receptor value is low to medium as local communities, the local economically active population, and regionally based SMEs will have different capabilities to adapt to this beneficial impact. It will vary depending upon the overall size of the business or economically active workforce. For some SMEs, their involvement in the Project may result in a significant increase in business turnover during construction. It is essential that the local recruitment process is adequately managed and seen to be transparent, involving the active participation of local and regional stakeholders. Impact Significance Negligible Minor Moderate Major The overall impact significance is moderate. This is a beneficial impact and no mitigation is required. No residual impacts are expected to occur. Enhancement measures which could strengthen the positive effects are discussed in Chapter 7. 7.1.7.4 Capacity strain contribution to local public services and facilities It is currently preferred that the construction workforce will be provided with hotel and/or residential housing facilities. Current discussions with Khokimyiat suggest adequate accommodation is available in Navoi and surrounding towns and villages. The owners and employees of hotels and accommodation facilities used will, on one hand, directly benefit through increase business revenue and profits (identified in the impact above). On the other hand, there is a potential capacity saturation of the provision of local public services and their facilities, such as health facilities for construction workers. If a workforce camp is proposed it will be designed in accordance with IFC/EBRD guidance and will include provision for required services. Impact Assessment: Capacity strain contribution to local public services and facilities Impact Nature Positive Negative Impact is negative (positive aspects are included in the impact above), due to the potential saturation of local services. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 145 Impact Assessment: Capacity strain contribution to local public services and facilities The impact is indirect because the individuals involved, and the local communities, may be impacted differently depending on their dependence to those services and the actual location of the worker accommodation. The adverse impact is reversible. Impact Duration Short-term Medium-term Long-term Very Long-term The majority of the positive and negative impacts are short-term as construction works are expected to continue for a period of approximately 9-12 months. Capacity strain will likely be more perceptible during the construction period. Impact Extent Local Regional National The impact will occur at a local level. Impact Magnitude Negligible Low Medium High The impact magnitude is Low as the workforce and their families may represent a perceptible change to the communities in the Direct AoI but maybe not for the Indirect AoI and beyond. Receptor Value / Sensitivity Negligible Low Medium High The sensitivity is low to medium as the access to public services is relevant to communities to sustain their livelihoods and the local workforce to develop their daily activities. Suspension or delay of services may be harder for some receptors to adapt than others. Impact Significance Negligible Low Moderate Major The negative impact is assessed as Low given the local extent. Nonetheless, considering that Medium receptor sensibility could be encountered, this impact will require mitigation measures as if it were a Moderate Significance. Measures are included in the ESMP. 7.1.7.5 Loss of public access and reduced mobility through local paths A boundary fence line shall be installed at the start of construction activities to prevent the entry of unauthorised personnel into working areas to maintain public health and safety. From the moment the fences are erected, local people from the Core, Direct and Indirect AoI will lose access to footpaths inside the Project area. This shall result in longer time periods being required to move between locations when the footpaths are generally used. The road to the east and south of the Project area shall continue to be available. Of note, this impact does not relate to potential economic impacts (described in the next impact) or legal land lease aspects, but to the loss of informal mobility access in local paths. Impact Assessment: Impacts from a loss of public access to footpaths inside the project area Impact Nature Positive Negative Impact is negative as there will be a loss of access by footpaths into the Project area. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible The impact is direct because local people shall no longer be able to access the footpaths to travel. There are existing local paths marked within the site that may be occasionally used as a crossing area. Users will no longer be travelling inside the Project area as access to this land shall be lost. Impact Duration Short-term Medium-term Long-term Very Long-term The impact is considered to be of very long term as the boundary fences shall be in place during both construction and operations. They may be removed as previous land use is reinstated after Project decommissioning. Impact Extent Local Regional National The impact will occur at a local level only as the restrictions to land shall most likely impact people from a single farm. Impact Magnitude Negligible Low Medium High The impact magnitude is Low as the limited number of people who currently use the dirt tracks will be able to access alternative tracks or roads to reach their destination. Only a single herder was observed walking over the land. Negligible Low Medium High Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 146 Impact Assessment: Impacts from a loss of public access to footpaths inside the project area Receptor Value / Sensitivity The impact magnitude is Medium as other roads shall remain available for use and so there are alternative routes available. Local tenant farmer may need to adapt to the new farming area and access route. Impact Significance Negligible Low Medium Major The impact is assessed as Low adverse, primarily because the local farm users may present different times to adapt and readjust to their new timings and distances compared to baseline conditions. 7.1.7.6 Reduced access to grazing and pastoral land This impact will commence at the start of construction as working areas are fenced off to prevent unauthorised entry inside the site boundary. No impacts to land and livelihoods are expected to occur in relation to the upgrade of existing access roads which will connect the Project area to the main road (M37), as the width of the roads will not be widened. The change in land use in the Project area may result in change in local livelihoods mainly as a result of the reduction in available grazing area and reduction in income. • Site clearing and grading will affect farming activities in the area. • Transportation of waste from the site and materials and equipment by road may disrupt local livelihoods. • No physical resettlement will be required therefore there is no need to undertake a Resettlement Action Plan. Within areas where construction works are ongoing, spatial impacts to access to grazing and pastoral land (in contrast to distance and time-altering impacts from the mobility impact above) will occur arising from a loss of access to grazing and pastoral land. According to the results of fieldwork undertaken during March 2020, the land for the Project area is currently being used for pastureland for the grazing of livestock, specifically from Farm B. Whereas the current tenant reports to having been informed of the land change since 2018, alternative land for their economic activities is yet to be procured. Discussions with the local government on alternative land locations are underway. This will be further reviewed in the full ESIA after a new site visit and interviews are undertaken. Impact Assessment: Reduced access to grazing and pastoral land Impact Nature Positive Negative Impact is negative as existing land users shall experience a reduction of access to typical livelihood areas due to the restrictions in access to the land within the site boundary. No physical displacement will occur. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible The impact is direct because the local farms will no longer be able to access land inside the Project area during the Project life cycle. Resulting impacts are reversible after the Project’s decommissioning stage or after an alternative land is procured. Impact Duration Short-term Medium-term Long-term Very Long-term The impact is very long-term as land users will not be able to conduct pastoral activities inside the Project area from the moment fences are installed along the site boundary until the Project is decommissioned. The impact could have less duration after an alternative land is procured. It should be noted that the land leases were modified since 2018 and reportedly, the administrative process to provide the alternative land has not been completed. Impact Extent Local Regional National Impacts associated with a loss of access to land will occur amongst the two farms in the Core AoI. Impact Magnitude Negligible Low Medium High The impact magnitude is medium as the impact is perceptible to the local farms and will represent a relevant change to their baseline conditions in terms of local grazing areas. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 147 Impact Assessment: Reduced access to grazing and pastoral land Receptor Value / Sensitivity Negligible Low Medium High The receptor’s sensitivities may range from Medium to High, depending on their access to alternative land. Farm A is reportedly not using the area for livestock grazing, but Farm B users still depend on it until alternative land is provided. Farm B users are not the leaseholders of the land, and therefore alternative land needs to be registered under the current tenant name instead of the current leaseholder. Impact Significance Negligible Minor Moderate Major The impact is assessed as Moderate pre mitigation, on the basis that Farm B has a high reliance on land inside the Project area for livelihood. Post-mitigation assessment may take the impact significance to Moderate if Farm B tenants are engaged to participate in their alternative land provision. 7.1.7.7 Increased presence of workers and interaction with local communities Community H&S may be at risk from worker migration and the presence of workers in the Project area, resulting in a potential change in the disease profile of the local population. A more robust social baseline study will expand on communicable disease morbidity, crime incidence and risks of sexual exploitation. Women (including vulnerable young girls) may be particularly at risk from the increased presence of local and migrant men looking for work opportunities near the Project AoI. Interactions with local community members and women has the potential to increase the incidence of communicable diseases. It is fundamentally important that the Project fully considers the COVID-19 risks as communicable respiratory diseases will most likely be the most significant concern for potential interactions between the workforce and community members. A more thorough process to prevent and minimise exposure to COVID-19 risks will be included in the Full ESIA. Local workers may be exposed to potential COVID-19 risks where they are employed on the the workers’ camp. In turn this could result in further spread of COVID-19 back to the local community. A detailed assessment will be undertaken once the EPC has been appointed and their plans can be scrutinised in detail. While the full details of the workers’ camp have not been provided yet, the mitigation measures to avoid and reduce risk exposure will be implemented, as detailed in the Interim Advice for IFC Clients on Preventing and Managing Health Risks of COVID-19 in the Workplace (IFC, 2020). Further to this the ESIA will consider the potential impact on local hospitals and medical facilities in the event of an outbreak of Covid-19 at the worker’s accommodation. Impact Assessment: Increased presence of workers and interaction with local communities Impact Nature Positive Negative This is an adverse impact because of the potential for people from outside the local area to turn up seeking employment and other types of economic opportunities. The Project workers which will be based at the workers’ camp will also be exposed to H&S risks. This may result in an increased risk and exposure to spreading communicable diseases, increased tensions between residents and newcomers, and may result in an increase in the local incidence of crime, in addition to potential surges of COVID-19 risks. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible The impact is direct and indirect because the Project will cause potential local employment that will attract direct and indirect opportunities and other potential worker migration. This is largely reversible once the construction phase is concluded. Impact Duration Short-term Medium-term Long-term Very Long-term The impact is short-term as community health and safety risks will be introduced from the start of the construction phase and although there will be residual risks throughout operation of the project, no significant worker migration is expected. Depending upon the type of incident and impact to human health, the duration could be medium-term. Workers’ accommodation will further restrict the movement and interaction of workers with local communities outside the site, and the workers’ camp will implement COVID-19 prevention measures within its quarters (further detailed in the full ESIA). Impact Extent Local Regional National Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 148 Risks will be generated at a local level within the Direct and Indirect AoI. Impact Magnitude Negligible Low Medium High The impact magnitude is Medium because the potential for workers to travel outside their accommodation when they are not working and interact with local residents is perceptible to both Direct and Indirect AoI communities. Both residents and workers living in the workers’ camp may be exposed to increased health and safety risks. Receptor Value / Sensitivity Negligible Low Medium High The sensitivity is Medium as the local communities may be able to adapt to this change depending on the actual location of worker accommodation. Whereas Navoi city will have sufficient means to adapt, other localities such as Uzumzor or the Southern Settlement may not have the same resilience to intake a large workforce or prevent their vulnerable groups from this potential increase to community H&S risks. Depending on the workforce composition, vulnerable worker population may be more sensitive to avoiding or treating communicable diseases, and this will have to be identified as a priority during the planning stage. Impact Significance Negligible Minor Moderate Major The potential impact during construction is considered to be Moderate adverse, premitigation. 7.1.7.8 Increased presence of security personnel In addition to the expected workforce, during the construction phase, private security personal shall be used to provide general security at construction working areas to ensure that there is no entry of unauthorised personnel and that construction equipment is safe and secure. There is the potential for security personnel to use excessive force that results in intimidation or even physical damage, acting as a trigger event to further potential conflicts and Human Rights risks. Impact Assessment: Increased presence of security personnel Impact Nature Positive Negative This is an adverse impact because of the potential use of excessive force or intimidating presence of security guards that may interact with local herders or community members traveling near the Project site. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible The impact is direct because the Project will employ security personnel as part of its planned activities and to avoid access from local community members to other OHS risks inside the site. It is largely reversible with the proper HR training. Impact Duration Short-term Medium-term Long-term Very Long-term The impact is short-term as community health and safety risks will be largely limited to the construction phase. Impact Extent Local Regional National Risks will be generated at a local level within the Core, Direct and Indirect AoI. Impact Magnitude Negligible Low Medium High The impact magnitude is Medium because the potential for security guards to interact with local community members is a very perceptible change to the baseline conditions of ample passage and access to the site area. Receptor Value / Sensitivity Negligible Low Medium High The sensitivity is Medium as the local communities may be able to adapt to this change depending on the timing of previous disclosure of Project starting activities. Impact Significance Negligible Minor Moderate Major The potential impact during construction is considered to be Moderate adverse, premitigation. It is expected that HR training will reduce this to Minor. Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 149 7.1.8 Traffic and Transportation 7.1.8.1 Assessment Methodology The assessment is based on the use of a number of different types of vehicles used during the construction and operation of the Project. These include: • Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs) – contractors’ vans, minibuses, private cars etc. • Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) – vehicles with a maximum rigid length of 12 m and a maximum articulated length of 16.5 m. • Abnormal loads – vehicles over 25 m in length or 3.6 m wide. 7.1.8.2 Guidance The assessment has been carried out using the IEMA (2003) “Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic”. The guidelines suggest the following thresholds are adopted to assess whether particular links of the network are to be subject to assessment: • Rule 1 – Include highway links where traffic flows will increase by more than 30 % (or number of HGVs increasing by more than 30 %). • Rule 2 – Include any other specifically sensitive areas where traffic flows will increase by 10 % or more. 7.1.8.3 Assessment of Effects The following sections set out the methodology which has been used to determine if the increased traffic flows during the construction phase of the Project are likely to be significant. Sensitivity Criteria The sensitivity of roads, their users and settlements along the proposed route has been assessed in accordance with the criteria set out in Table 7-4. The IEMA guidance details that sensitive locations are defined as receptors that are sensitive to traffic including amenities such as hospitals, places of worship, schools and historic buildings. Table 7-4: Sensitivity Criteria Sensitivity Criteria High Large rural settlement containing numerous amenities. Traffic management measures in place such as controlled crossings, signalled junctions etc. Minor / unclassified unpaved roads with low traffic flow volumes. These may not be suitable for large HGV vehicles. Medium Rural settlement with a number of amenities. Minor traffic management measures in place. Local road (paved / unpaved) suitable for HGV traffic. Low Small rural settlement with few local amenities. Minimal traffic management measures in place. Paved road capable of large volumes of HGV traffic. Negligible Scattered dwellings with no local amenities. No / little traffic management in place. Highway suitable for all types of vehicles and volumes. Magnitude of Change Criteria Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 150 The magnitude of impact on traffic flow is determined based on criteria set out in the IEMA guidelines. This is set out within Table 7-5 below. Table 7-5: Magnitude of Change Criteria Sensitivity Criteria Large Above 90% Above 90% Medium Between 60% and 90% Between 60% and 90% Small Between 30% and 60% Between 30% and 60% Negligible Under 30% Under 30% Assessing Level of Effect Using these definitions, a combined assessment of sensitivity and magnitude has been made to determine the level of the predicted effect on a receptor i.e. Negligible, Minor, Moderate or Major. All direct and indirect impacts causing Moderate or Major effects, as identified within Table 4-3 are considered to be significant. Where the identified thresholds above are exceeded, the IEMA guidance sets out a list of effects which should be assessed. This includes: • Accidents and safety. • Driver delay. • Pedestrian amenity. • Severance. • Air pollution. • Dust and dirt. • Ecological effects. • Hazardous loads. • Heritage and conservation. • Noise. • Pedestrian delay. • Vibrations. • Visual effects. A number of these effects are covered elsewhere in the ESIA and so those considered within this chapter include: • Accidents and safety. • Severance. • Driver delay. • Pedestrian amenity. • Pedestrian delay. Accidents and safety IEMA guidelines do not recommend the use of thresholds for identifying significance of impacts due to numerous local causation factors involved in personal injury accidents. However, it is recognised that a significant increase Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 151 in overall traffic volumes and abnormal loads may raise concerns over road safety. Therefore, measures to address road safety concerns will form a key part of the assessment methodology and development of mitigation options. Driver delay Driver delay occurs due to additional traffic present on the road network. IEMA guidelines note that additional delays are only likely to be significant if the traffic on the network is already at, or close to, capacity. Key areas where delays may occur include: • At the site entrance due to turning of vehicles. • On the highway passing the site. • At key intersections along the highway. • At junctions where the ability to find gaps in the traffic may be reduced, thereby lengthening delays. Pedestrian amenity This is broadly defined as the relative pleasantness of a journey and is considered to be affected by traffic flow, traffic composition and pavement width / separation from traffic. IEMA guidelines state that this may be significant where traffic is either halved or doubled. Severance IEMA guidelines state that severance is the perceived division that can occur within a community when it becomes separated by a major traffic artery. The term is used to describe a complex series of factors that separate people from places and other people. Severance can also result from difficulty in crossing a heavily trafficked road. The guidance indicates that severance effects are considered ‘slight’ in cases that include: • Pedestrian at-grade crossings on new roads carrying below 8,000 vehicles per day (AADT) (DoT, June 1993); or • Changes of traffic flow of less than 30% (IEMA, March 1993). Pedestrian delay Changes in the volume and composition or speed of traffic on the road network may affect the ability of people to cross roads. In general, increasing traffic volumes will lead to an increase in pedestrian delay. Thresholds are not recommended for use to identify significance of potential effects due to the range of local factors and conditions which can affect delay. 7.1.8.4 Assumptions It is assumed for the purposes of this assessment (and forecasted levels of traffic) that construction will commence in 2020/2021. Should this not be the case, it is unlikely that the change in forecasted levels of traffic will be of such a level as to change the assessment outcomes. The calculations are also based on a 100 MW (AC) solar plant. As the details of how road stone and other materials will be supplied are not known at this stage, it is assumed that the routing of all materials will follow the route identified in the section below, thus presuming a “worst-case” scenario. The construction schedule will be defined by the Project Developer. The assessment is based on an assumed construction phase duration of around nine to 12 months, taking consideration of potential delays in transportation of materials and weather conditions. It is also assumed that the Project will be constructed as one development rather than in a phased approach. The vehicle numbers and personnel requirements have been calculated based on these “worst-case” assumptions. 7.1.8.5 Traffic Generation The Project will result in additional vehicles travelling to and from the site during construction. These will include heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and light vehicles. Overall, the total number of vehicles required to travel to and Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 152 from site is not expected to be significant. A worst-case scenario has been modelled where all materials are transported to site by road. The first period of construction will be associated with the delivery of equipment to site and the construction activities that will be carried out on site. The second phase will involve set up and commissioning of all infrastructure and as such, this stage will have reduced vehicle requirements. The construction phase is expected to generate the traffic volumes detailed in Table 7-6 below. It should be noted that these traffic volumes are based on previous solar PV project experience and are to be confirmed once a construction strategy is available from the Project Developer. This assessment is limited to the expected amount of HGV movements and construction staff transportation requirements. It is also likely that a larger bus would be provided for construction workers thereby reducing the number of vehicle movements. Table 7-6: Potential Volume of Vehicle Movements during Construction Vehicle Type Activity Total Vehicle Movements HGV Delivery of materials, plant, containers, concrete, aggregate material and welfare facilities 6,030 LGV (people carrier up to 6 people) Transportation for construction workers to site. 1,400 It should be noted that this does not include movements of any abnormal loads or specialist vehicles (bulldozers, cranes etc) to the Project site. The amount of construction workers being transported to site is based on a typical on-site presence of 20 staff at any one time with an average temporary presence of around 50 workers needed for the installation of the modules. Construction times can be arranged to avoid local peak times and routing arrangements, particularly for HGVs to minimise potential impacts 7.1.8.6 Effects on the Road Network The magnitude of change in traffic numbers cannot be quantified accurately at this stage for the majority of the roads due to the lack of traffic count data for the affected roads along the route. Due to the size of the Project however and the length of the construction period, the construction traffic on a daily basis is unlikely to be significant. It is envisaged that the magnitude of change associated with Project generated traffic would likely to be Low. Considering that the majority of the road network is of low sensitivity and the likelihood that the magnitude of change would not exceed Low, the overall level of effect is predicted to be Negligible during the construction process. The impact on the local road network is therefore not anticipated to be significant during construction. Mitigation measures have been proposed to ensure that any impacts are limited. Impact Assessment: Impacts on traffic during construction Impact Nature Positive Negative Impact is negative because construction activities may result in increased traffic volumes. Impact Type Direct Indirect Reversible Irreversible The impact is direct as construction activities would directly increase construction traffic. Impact Duration Temporary Short-term Medium-term Long-term Permanent The impact is temporary as impacts would occur during the construction phase only. Impact Extent Local Regional National Preliminary ESIA Report Nur Navoi Solar PV Uzbekistan PRELIMINARY 7 Preliminary Impact Assessment Prepared for: Nur Navoi Solar FE LLC Project: 60627432 AECOM 153 Impact Assessment: Impacts on traffic during construction The impact is expected to occur within the site and on national roads in both Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Receptor Value / Sensitivity Low Medium High Although the transportation route passes a number of towns, the road is likely to have existing HGV traffic and the receptor sensitivity is determined to be low. Impact Magnitude No change Negligible Low Medium High Magnitude of change is anticipated to be Low as the increased number of HGV movements is not expected to exceed 30% above baseline. Impact Significance None Negligible Low Medium High The impact is assessed as Negligible and not significant pre mitigation. Although no specific mitigation is required, standard good construction practice will be maintained to ensure no increase in predicted impacts during construction.