Sarakina is chosen for the electric power station
[news item September 2009]
The Electric Company DEH is proposing to construct a new 120
megawatt oil-burning electrical power station at Sarakina together with an oil
reservoir adjacent at Mandamados. The Nomarchia is taking steps to accelerate
the process. The appraisal of alternative locations for the project suggested
that Mageiras, not Sarakina was the best location but it appears that DEH had
objections to Mageiras. The people of Mandamados have initiated a campaign
against the decision. We strongly support them and have written to the Nomarch
stating our opposition. Our view was restated last
year. It is that, at most, there is a case to
upgrade the existing factory at the present site as part of a longer term plan
to develop renewable energy resources. Plans for the development of wind farms
already exist but are apparently opposed by DEH.
Development at Sarakina and Mandamados places at serious risk
from oil pollution the Islands of Lesbos Natura 2000 site and in our judgement
is another violation of Greece's obligations under the
Habitats Directive.