Ardebil Geothermal Power Plant Victim to Financial Dispute

Financial disputes between the Energy Ministry and the contractor of the first geothermal power plant in Meshgin Shahr, Ardebil Province, has brought the project to a standstill, the governor of the province said.
"More than $16 million has been spent so far on the venture. But the contractor has stopped work due to financial disagreements with the employer [Energy Ministry]," Akbar Samadi was quoted as saying. He did not elaborate.
Eleven wells have been drilled on the site at a depth of 3,500 meters, of which seven are ready to become operational. Almost 80% of the equipment including turbines and generators have been purchased and delivered to the site.