One of the main focuses of Georgia's state strategy in electricity is the full development and use of renewable energy sources. The country's abundant wind and solar resources create ample opportunities for this. By developing this area, Georgia aims to strengthen energy security. However, the fact that alternative energy is more expensive than the use of traditional energy sources and environment protection are the main challenges for this sector.

The use of alternative energy sources is not economically viable, professor at Georgia's Technical University, an energy expert Giya Arabidze stated.

"In Georgia, the cost of solar and wind energy is higher than that of electricity generated by Hydroelectric power stations. In the development of renewable energy sources, the protection of the environment is of particular importance than economic benefits," he said.

According to the expert, Georgia does not produce large amounts of biofuel, and its consumption is immeasurably low.

Arabidze said that under its energy strategy, the country needs to commission solar and wind power plants with 400 megawatts capacity by 2025.

"This power is quite sufficient and opens up prospects for cooperation with other countries. Azerbaijan is sunnier than Georgia, and both are windy places, which create favorable opportunities for Georgian-Azerbaijani cooperation in the production of these two types of alternative energy," he highlighted.

The expert noted that solar energy is suitable for getting not only electricity but also thermal energy that is used in hot water supply: "Solar collectors concentrate this energy. However, Georgia does not produce such equipment. World markets mostly sell Chinese-made collectors, which are not of high quality.

According to Arabidze, Georgia, and Azerbaijan may establish joint enterprises and construct solar collectors.

"The devices can be exported not only to domestic but also to foreign markets. Such machines are in high demand in world markets," he emphasized.

The expert stated that his country has experience in establishing ventures for alternative energy because of foreign investment.

"Last year, a German company launched a plant for the production of solar panels in Kutaisi. The company exports the devices to Germany and other countries," he added.