E2899 v2
Palestinian National Authority
Energy & Natural Resources Authority
&
Gaza Electricity Distribution Corporation (GEDCo)
Gaza Electricity Network Rehabilitation Project
Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
Prepared by: Eng. Nidal Toman , Eng. Wael Ahmed , Mr. Usama Dabbour
November – 2011
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Gaza Electricity Network Rehabilitation Project
Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
Main Report
Table of Contents
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1. Background
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Components Requireing Environmental Impact Assessment
1.3 Proposed Activities
1.3.1 Design and Planning Phase
1.3.2 Construction Phase
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1.3.3 Operation Phase
1.4 Coordination
2. Study Scope and Methodolgy
2.1 The study and Methodolgy
2.2 Methodolgy and ESIA Resourcing
2.3 Public Awareness
2.4 Impact Prediction and Evaluation
3. Project Description
3.1 Overview
3.2 Components of the Projects
4. Environmental Policy , legal and administrative framework
4.1 World Bank Environment and social safeguards policies
4.2 OP/BP 4.01 Environmental Assessment
4.3 Local Legislative and Requltory Standards
4.3.1 Palestinian National Authority
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4.3.2 Ministry of Environmental Affairs
5. Baseline Data
5.1 The Geographical Location
5.2 Climate
5.3 Demography
5.4 Economy
5.5 The Current Electricity Situation
5.6 Number of Beneficiary
6. Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP)
6.1 Potential Environmental and Social Impacts
6.1.1 Opportunities and Positive and Social Impacts
6.1.2 The Negative Imapcts
6.2 Measurement / procedures of the plan
7. Monitoring Protocol for electrical Lines
7.1 monitoring plan
7.2 implementaion arrangements
8. Conclusion
Annex 1 map of the project area
Annex 2 References
Annex 3 List of consulted stakeholders
Annex 4 Recording of five public consultaions
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1- Background
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1.1 Introduction
The Gaza Electricity Networks Rehabilitation Project’ ,funded by the World Bank and the
IDB, main objective is to improve the efficiency and quality of electricity supply in the Gaza
Strip and strengthening the Capacity building for GEDCo through: (i) financing of critical
investments for the rehabilitation / expanding the electricity networks in Gaza to improve their
reliability , performance and improve supply (ii) assisting GEDCo to have mobile billing PC's
and to install about 10,000 Prepaid meters to improve collection (ii) assisting with significant
capacity building and technical assistance for GEDCo to improve its finical, accounting and
administrative management as well as its operation.
1.2 Components Requiring an Environmental Impact Assessment
The project consists of the following components:
Component 1 – Network rehabilitation and Expansion:
 Subcomponent 1: (Rehabilitation of Medium and Low Voltage Networks)
This will include rehabilitation of old medium and low voltage electrical networks and
will include replacement of installation of electrical poles.
 Subcomponent 2: (Network Supply Improvement)
This will include activities for the construction of new networks facilities to improve the
performance of the electricity supply in Gaza.
 Subcomponent 3: (Collection Improvement)
The subcomponent will aim to improve collection and work performance and include
the purchase of mobile PC's and installation of prepaid meters and supporting
equipment.
Component 2 – Capacity Building:
The aim of this component is to increase the capacity of GEDCo in system operation and
management and will include the purchase of some vehicles, software and hardware and
technical assistance.
All Subcomponents in component 1 will be covered by the environmental and social study
however Component 2 – Capacity Building will not be included in the study
1.3 Proposed Activities
The proposed activities related to the rehabilitation and installation of new Distribution lines
includes the installation of Low Voltage and Medium Voltage Poles, Networks and
transformers along routes already identified. These activities will include mapping of
distribution networks route to Excavation for Poles Bases and Underground Cables.
The project sites will have the following works to be conducted;
Construction a total route of 36 kilometers (km) of 22kV overhead lines
Laying and connecting of a total route of 33 km of 22kV Cross Linked Polyethylene Power
(XLPE) cables.
Installation a total of 69 transformers (22/0.4kV)
Construction a total of 167 km of Low Voltage networks
Installation of 10,000 prepaid metering
The project activities can be classified in the following stages;
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1. Design and Planning Phase
2. Construction Phase
3. Operation Phase
1.3.1 Design and Planning Phase
During the design phase of this project, the expected activities have been undertaken
regarding Site Selection and Routing. The following have been the main criteria for selection
of line routes:
- Using public land (municipalities) to avoid conflicts with land owners and to have no
cost related to land acquisitions.
- Designing the networks according to the permitted clearance to avoid constructing
the networks close to the buildings & other obstacles.
- Avoid harming and damaging the infrastructure during the stage of implantation and
construction by initiating consultations and communications with the relevant
authorities and municipalities in the phase of design and planning
- Avoid installation of poles in front of building entrance or the entrance of commercial
shops by proper designing of Spans and sagging.
1.3.2 Construction Phase
During the construction phase, the following key activities are expected to occur:
1. Horizontal and Vertical Clearances:
Clearing of the path where the distribution infrastructure will pass is the initial activity that will
occur during the construction phase. This is in order to create the vertical and horizontal
clearance required when constructing electricity distribution lines. The obstacles along this
path will be cleared as required.
2. Excavation Works:
After the distribution network path has been cleared as specified above, there will be
excavation related works related to Laying Underground cables and for Pole Bases.
3. Construction of Foundation:
Foundations shall be designed for all specified Pole types, for any type of soil to be found.
Poles foundations shall normally be of reinforced or mass concrete type. Concrete
foundations shall be the standard foundation for the poles. Excavated material shall be
removed and replaced with approved backfill. The Contractor shall carry out the excavation
necessary for the approved foundation type. Excavation shall be confined to a minimum
working area consistent with efficient operations. The foundation should be between 1.5-20
m2.
4. In the case of laying cables:
The contractor shall lay the cables along the trenches as per drawing & supervisor instruction
with fixing concrete slabs, along the trenches including the warning tape and backfill.
The Contractor shall get rid of remnants of excavation in safe places that have been
previously selected by the concerned municipality , and repair damage to any infrastructure
that may have occurred, and restore the work site to its original/previous position as it was.
5. Erection of the Poles:
The Poles shall be raised by cranes and installed; following this, the cross arms will be fixed
on the poles and then the insulators and accessories will be installed; overhead wires will
be strung;, and finally Switches and Transformers will be installed.
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6. Anti-climbing devices:
Anti-climbing devices shall be provided on all Medium Voltage Poles. Each Pole shall be
fitted with anti-climbing device fixed at a height of around 4 meters above ground.
1.3.3 Operation Phase:
After the project is completed and after GEDCo and the concerned municipality will confirm
that the contractor has repaired damage to any infrastructure and has restored the work site
to its previous position as it was. GEDCo will receive the work sites with all the components
of the new electrical networks and make of its operation according to its specified standards.
1.4 Coordination
Great care will be used in the co-ordination between the GEDCo and the contractor for the
commissioning of the MV and LV lines to be connected to the existing networks.
The detailed work plan shall take into account that the existing networks will remain
operational during the works. The necessary cut-offs and disturbances shall be reduced to a
minimum and will be planned in close cooperation with the Contactor. GEDCo shall inform
the public in advance of the cut-offs and disturbances to allow them to take the necessary
precautions on their side.
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2- Study Scope and Methodology
2.1 The Study and Methodology
In order to find and meet the requirements of the Grant which is provided by the World Bank
and the IDB regarding Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) including
(ESMP) Environmental and Social Management Plan, the main objectives of the
environmental and social impact assessment are:
1. Determine the Positive and negative environmental impacts.
2. Getting the Technical information and recommendations to help selecting and better
designing.
3. Preparing Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP), which includes
mitigation program, monitoring plan, technical assistance program, and institutional
arrangements to describe the best way to implement the project.
2.2 Methodology and ESIA Resourcing1
The following methodologies for collecting baseline information for the Project have been
formulated on the basis of:
• Relevant documents, including World Bank directives, guidelines and other document,
policy papers and guidelines of the Palestinian cultural and environment sectors;
• The work of GEDCo with the relevant Authorities including the GEDCo's available technical
Drawings (complete with exact Places of electrical lines, Poles and Transformers, etc.);
• The ESIA report also makes use of the socio-economic information.
Collection of baseline information besides relying on the above sources, it also strengthened
by the results of five public consultations held by GEDCo, it will be mentioned below.
2.3 Public awareness and consultations
Public consultations are an important part of the ESIA process. It has been started and will
be continued during the projects implementation. Five Consultations with key stakeholders
(affected peoples, tribal leaders, women, youth and other relevant local NGOs,
environmental institutions, government agencies and other stakeholders) have been carried
out during the preparation period of the ESMP between 17&24 October 2011 as per Annex
(4) in each Governorate with the following objectives:
1. To explain the role of the World Bank in Supporting the Palestinian People and to
ease their life
2. To explain the project's Positive Impacts.
3. Discuss the project's negative impacts which expected to be minimal, temporary and
site-specific and GEDCo's mitigations measures to reduce these negative impacts.
4. Get feed back and inputs from the public regarding their fears and concerns
5. If there is any Environmental or social concerns, mitigation measures will be
explained to the public and the EAMP will be modified to cover all concerns from the
public.
In addition to the open consultations; GEDCO has planned to reach the public through: (i)
making announcements on local radio stations in Gaza Strip; (ii) preparing and distributing
brochures to the public with the electricity bill; (iii) visiting people located near projects; (iv)
placing of banners in the streets in Gaza Strip advertising the project; providing information
on the GEDCo's website (http://www.gedco.ps).
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The report benefited from the Environmental Assessment and Management Plan (EAMP) that was prepared for
the Palestine Electric Utility Management Project (EUMP) by Norconsult dated February 2008.
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More than 150 people had attended the five consultations; the attendants were from the
affected people, tribal leaders, concerned municipalities and local councils,
EQA,
universities , youth associations , women associations , refugees representatives , journalists
association , private sectors ,businessmen etc .
During the consultations GEDCo managed dialogues and open discussions with the
participants and listened carefully to their concerns, which were mainly related to the
negative environmental and social impacts that may arise during the implementation of these
projects in terms of that the medium voltage networks to be constructed away from the
houses, as well as to take the proper actions and procedures with the contractors in order to
reduce traffic jamming and to dispose of excavation waste as soon as possible and make
sure to repair any damage to the infrastructure during the process of projects implementation
, and to avoid working at times of peak traffic, especially in areas where traffic jams around
the community such as universities and hospitals. Some of the attendants showed concerns
and fears of the new technology of the prepaid system.
GEDCo confirmed its commitment to the people that it will take its procedures with the
contractors to mitigate any negative impacts during the construction phase with the
implementation of standard good practice construction codes by the contractors.
Also it was made clear that the project will be implemented in the public streets and will not
fall in the property of the citizens and not to be inconsistent with the infrastructure during the
implementation. In case of a complaint by any citizen, should be submitted in writing to
GEDCo's management, and will be worked on with the citizen to resolve the dispute and
resolve the issue. Also it was explained to the people the advantage of the prepaid meter
system and the categories of customers which are planned to have the prepaid system in
this stage.
The carried out public consultations have been very informative and enriched the ESIA.
Overall, it is clear that the projects are expected to attain significant important environmental
and social benefits that overweigh any minor adverse environmental and social impacts,
which could be mitigated through the implementation of the proposed Environmental and
Social Management Plan.
Please refer to Annex 4 of the ESIA for a complete record of consultations.
2. 4 Impact Prediction and Evaluation
Various methods and techniques were applied in impact identification, prediction and
evaluation. The Environmental Assessment identified and analyzed potential impacts linking
these with specific project activities and phase. First the task was to consider both positive
and negative impacts of the project. While considering the impacts, the study examined them
in light of their characteristics i.e. nature (positive or negative), extent (spatial), occurrence
(one-off, intermitted or constant), magnitude, whether reversible or irreversible, direct or
indirect, probability of occurrence and significance with and without mitigation.
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3- Project Description
3.1 Overview
The Gaza Electricity Network Rehabilitation Project will be implemented in Gaza Strip.
The primary focus of the Project will be to rehabilitate and expand the electricity networks in
Gaza to improve their reliability and performance. In addition, the Project will include a
significant technical assistance component for capacity building for GEDCO to improve its
financial, accounting and administrative management as well as its operation.
3.2 Components of the Project
Component 1 – Network rehabilitation and Expansion. This component includes the
following:

Subcomponent 1: Rehabilitation of Medium and Low Voltage Networks:
a. Rehabilitation of Medium Voltage Networks (US$ 600,000 – financed by the IDB):
This project will rehabilitate deteriorated medium voltage networks in Gaza. The
project will entail, among others, replacing and installing 13 km Overhead
Networks, transformers and switches.
b. Rehabilitation of the Low Voltage Networks (US$ 1,592,000 financed by the IDB).
This project will rehabilitate deteriorated low voltage networks in the five
governorates in Gaza suffering from unsafe installation, high losses and low
voltages. The project will also entail, among others, replacing and installing new
poles and cables for about 139 km of low voltage networks.

Subcomponent 2: Network Supply Improvement. This subcomponent includes the
following activities for the construction of new network facilities to improve the
performance of the electricity supply in Gaza:
a. New 22 kV underground feeders from the Gaza Power Plant (US$ 3,000,000
financed IDB): The project will construct three new 22 kV underground feeders
from the Gaza Power Plant (GPP) to load centers in Gaza city. The feeders will
be needed to support evacuation of additional electricity supply from GPP which
will become available when the ongoing expansion of the GPP substation is
completed. The total length of the Route will about 12 km and will add a total of
36 MW of new network capacity.
b. Reconfiguration of Medium and Low Voltage Networks (US$4,487,000 of which
financed by the World Bank): The project will finance expansion of the existing
distribution networks in Gaza five governorates through the installation of medium
and low voltage networks and transformers to reduce loading of existing networks
and improve reliability of electricity supply. The project will entail, among others,
installing a 22 km of new overhead networks, the total length of the Route will be
about 13.5 km of new Medium Voltage underground cables, and 30 km of Low
Voltage networks new distribution transformers.
c. New 22 kV underground feeders from the proposed 161 kV north Substation (US$
1,738,000 financed by the IDB): The project will construct Medium Voltage
underground feeders from the proposed 161 kV north Substation to Gaza and
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North Governorates. The new feeders will also be designed to increase the
reliability of the 22 kV network in Gaza through ring network development. The
total length of the Route will be about 7 km of new Medium Voltage underground
cables.
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Subcomponent 3: Collection Improvement. This subcomponent supporting
equipment as follows:
a. Supply Meter mobile billing PC's (US$ 226,000 financed by the World Bank):
This project will finance the supply of meter reading equipment to facilitate
reading, recording and issuing electricity bills at consumer sites. GEDCo will
purchase about 80 units as GEDCo currently has 98 meter readers which will help
a lot to improve work performance.
b. PEA will supply 10,000 single phase and three phase prepaid meters to GAZA
(financed by anther Grant EUMP Project AFD, Norway and Sweden): the delivery
will take place early next year. These meters were purchased under EUMP/Phase
V program Project and financed by AFD, Norway, and Sweden. The Project will
be the first stage of scaling up installation of prepaid meters in Gaza.
Component 2 – Capacity Building: The aim of this component is increase the capacity of
GEDCO in system operation and management. This component will finance the following:

Subcomponent 1: Supply of Vehicles and IT. This subcomponent will finance the
following:
a. Supply of Vehicles (US$ 866,000 of which US$366,000 financed by the World Bank
and US$ 500,000 financed by the IDB): This project will finance the supply of vehicles
necessary for the operation, maintenance and repair works of the electricity networks
in Gaza. These vehicles will be transferred to Gaza from the PEA warehouse in the
West Bank.
b. Supply of Geographic Information System (GIS) (US$311,000 financed by the World
Bank): in order to support network information management, planning and operation.
c. Supply Load Flow hardware and software (US$172,000 financed by the World Bank):
for network analysis and planning.
d. Supply of IT hardware and software and tools (US$ 1,443,000 will be financed by the
World Bank): This project will finance the supply and installation of a wide variety of
IT hardware and software proposed by GEDCO for the technical operation of Gaza
electricity networks and financial and accounting management of GEDCO. Specific
IT Systems (software and hardware) proposed under this project include, among
others:
o Information Management System to support integrated financial, accounting,
administration management and customer services.
o Supporting IT network infrastructure and peripherals.
Given the wide scope of the IT hardware and software proposed for financing by the
Project and to ensure effective design, integration and deployment of the IT systems,
GEDCo will use the services of the existing Firm Price Waterhouse PWC of the West
Bank, whose contract is financed by the European Commission (EC). These services will
include the identification and preparation of Bid Document (BD) for the IT hardware and
software proposed for financing by the Project under Subcomponent 1 above.
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In Addition PWC will carry out a full review of the current organizational structure of
GEDCo and its operation procedures focusing mainly on its financial, accounting and
operational capacity and development of an internal audit department. Also PWC will
develop a comprehensive set of policies and procedures for major process within
GEDCo.
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Subcomponent 2: Technical Assistance including the following:
a. Master Plan Consultant (US$ 500,000): The Project will finance the hiring of a
consulting firm to support PEA in preparing a master plan for the development of
the electricity sector in Gaza.
b. Financial Audit (US$30,000 financed by the World Bank). The Project will finance
the hiring of a local consulting firm to carryout auditing services on the Project
Cost.
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4- Environmental Policy, Legal and administrative framework
4.1 World Bank Environment and Social Safeguards Policies
According to the World Bank this project is categorized as environmental “category B” and
the World Bank safeguard policies triggered by the project are OP 4.01 on environmental
assessment and OP 4.12 on involuntary resettlement. This means that all components of the
project with the exception of capacity building will be subject to environmental and social
impacts assessment (ESIA).
World Bank Operational Policies (OP) Environmental Assessment - OP 4.01 (January
1999) is applicable which requires environmental assessment of projects proposed for World
Bank financing to help ensure that they are environmentally sound and sustainable.
Environmental Assessment is one of the 10 safeguard policies of the World Bank.
Safeguard Policy OP 4.12 will not be triggered by the project as all the project activities, even
if there are design changes, will be done on public land and will not result in: (i) involuntary
taking of land; (ii) relocation or resettlement; (iii) loss of assets or access to assets, and (iv)
loss of income sources or means of livelihood.
4.2 OP 4.01 Environmental Assessment
In World Bank operations, the purpose of Environmental Assessment is to improve decision
making, to ensure that projects are sound and sustainable, and that potentially affected
people are consulted.
To meet this objective, the World Bank policy defines procedures to:
 Identify the level of environmental risk (screening) associated with a project;
 Assess the potential environmental impacts associated with the risk and how they
should be reduced to acceptable levels (environmental assessment and
management);
 Ensure the views of local groups that may be affected by the project are reflected in
identifying the environmental risk and managing any impacts (public consultation);
 Make certain that procedures followed in the environmental assessment process are
adequately disclosed and transparent to the general public (disclosure); and
 Include measures for implementation and supervision of commitments relating to
findings and recommendations of the EMP.
Public consultation and disclosure are essential elements of World Bank environmental
assessment policy and the necessary procedures and documentation for consultation and
disclosure are addressed within the context of this ESIA.
4.3 Local Legislative and Regulatory Standards
4.3.1 Palestinian National Authority (PNA)
As the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) seeks to achieve the sustainable development in
Palestine throughout improving the environmental quality and maintaining it ,encouraging
and achieving the social and economic development which will improve and maintain the
environment quality , and as the environmental assessment provides an effective means
which integrate the environmental factors in planning process and decision making in away
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which promote the sustainable development , accordingly ,Council of ministers granted the
approval on the policy of the Palestinian environmental assessment ,and that decision
according to the Palestinian Law No. (7) For the year 1999 on the environment and after the
approval of the Palestinian legislative council in its meetings which held in 6/7/1999.
4.3.2 Ministry of Environmental Affairs (MEnA)
The Ministry of Environmental Affairs (MEnA) has two formats for environmental
assessment.
The first is an Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) or screening, which covers projects were
significant impacts are uncertain and/ or unlikely due to the size of the operation (e.g. such
as smaller projects undertaking works in already disturbed areas). Based on the IEE the
MEnA decides whether more detailed assessments in the form of revisions or a full scale EIA
is necessary for licensing of the proposed operation.
The second is a full Environmental Impact Assessment, which covers projects where impacts
will occur to natural areas and/or to natural resources, as a result of new activities. The
regulations covering the environmental assessment are covered principally by the
Environmental Assessment Policy through resolution (27-23/4/2000) and the Environmental
Law of 1999.
Under the terms of the 1999 Regulations, the ESIA and EMP report has to be submitted to
MEnA for approval as per Flowchart of Environmental Assessment Administrative
Procedures below.
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5- Baseline Data
5.1 The Geographical Location
The Gaza Strip is the southern region of the Palestinian coast on the Mediterranean sea, a
narrow strip north-east of Sinai and stretches over an area of 365 Square km, in a length of
45 km, the width ranges between 5.5 and 12.5 km. Gaza Strip borders, Israel from the north
and east, while Egypt is bordering it from the south west.
The projects will be implemented in urban areas in all 5 Gaza Governorates (North, Gaza,
Middle, Khanyounis and Rafah).
5.2 Climate
The Gaza Strip lies within a transition zone between the Sinai desert semi-arid climate and
the Mediterranean Sea climate. The daily average temperature ranging between 25 m in
summer and 13 m winter, the humidity average is ranging between 65% in the summer
during the day to 85% at night, between 60% -80% winters night and day. the wind is
northwest wind, its speed varying between night and day , and the average of the annual
rainfall is 400 mm, but rainfall varying between year to year, ranging between 200-900 mm.
The evaporation rate ranges from 1.2 to 3.6 mm in December and July.
5.3 Demographics
In 2010 approximately 1.6 million Palestinians live in the Gaza Strip, of whom almost 1.0
million are UN-registered refugees. The majority of the Palestinians are descendants of
refugees who were driven from or left their homes during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. The
Strip's population has continued to increase since that time, one of the main reasons being a
total fertility rate of almost 5 children per woman. In a ranking by total fertility rate, this places
Gaza 26th of 223 regions.
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Most of the inhabitants are Sunni Muslims, with an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 Christians,
making the region 99.3 percent Sunni Muslim and 0.7 percent Christian.
The average of population density reached to 3880 persons / sq km, and population density
in the refugee camps, 55,500 people / sq km. Gaza Strip has 5 Governorates and based on
Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) for the year of 2007 the populations
distributed as follows:
Governorate
Rafah
Year
Gaza strip
Population
1970
0.34
1980
0.46
1990
0.65
2000
1.13
2004
1.3
2008
1.5
2010
1.6
Average
No. of
Size of
Households
Households
6.5
26,864
Sex
Total
Female
Male
173,372
85,907
87,465
133,402 137,577
Khan Younis
6.3
43,203
270,979
Middle
Gaza
North
6.4
6.5
6.7
32,083
76,809
40,262
219,221
205,535
496,411
270,246
1,416,543
Total
101,927
243,946
132,650
697,832
103,608
252,465
137,596
718,711
With 49.3% females and 50.7% males
The following demographic statistics are from the World Central Intelligence Agency
fact book, unless otherwise indicated.
Population growth rate: 3.422% (2008 est. sees also: Demographic trap)
Birth rate: 39.45 births/1,000 population (2006 est.)
Mortality rate: 3.8 deaths/1,000 population (2006 est.)
Ethnic groups: Palestinians 99.9
Religions: Muslim 98.7% (predominantly Sunni), Christian 0.7%
Languages: Arabic, Hebrew (spoken by many Palestinians), English (widely understood)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 91.9%
male: 96.3%
female: 87.4% (2003 est.)
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5.4 Economy
High population density, limited land and sea access, continuing isolation, and strict internal
and external security controls have degraded economic conditions in the Gaza Strip - the
smaller of the two areas in the Palestinian Territories. Israeli-imposed crossings closures,
which became more restrictive after June 2007, and War during December 2008-January
2009, resulted in the near collapse of most of the private sector, extremely high
unemployment, and high poverty rates. Shortages of goods are met through large-scale
humanitarian assistance - led by UNRWA. However, changes to the blockade in 2010
included moving from a white list - in which only approved items were allowed into Gaza
through the crossings - to a black list, where all but non-approved items were allowed into
Gaza through the crossings. Israeli authorities have recently signaled that exports from the
territory might be possible in the future, but currently regular exports from Gaza are not
permitted.
5.5 The Current Electricity Situation
Gaza Strip is supplied with Electricity from three sources:1. The Israeli Electric Company (IEC) 120 MW
The IEC electricity supplies Gaza Strip with 120 MW through 10 feeding (22KV) lines.
2. The Gaza Power Plant (Private Company)
Mainly the output of the power plant is at 60 MW and if additional required fuel is made
available to the power plant it can operate the third turbine and produce up to 70 MW.
3. The Two 22KV feeding lines from Egyptian Canal Company
The Egyptian electricity is restricted and feeds part of Rafah Governorate with 17 MW.
The current available electricity supply is at 207 MW against the demand of 300 MW
which triggers electricity shortage at about 31%.
5.6 The number of Beneficiaries of the Projects
GEDCo has done the planning for the projects in the best ways and methods to improve the
electricity sector and to benefit all the citizens in Gaza Strip. Any project which will be
implemented in any Governorate will benefit all the people in the area directly and indirectly
will benefit the other people in the as mentioned Governorate also it will contribute to benefit
indirectly the other people in the other Governorates.
The Table below shows the citizens directly benefited of the projects:
Governorate
Rehabilitation Medium Voltage
Networks 8 projects
Rehabilitation
Low
Voltage
Network 124 projects
Constructing new 22KV feeders
from the west substation
Installation new Transformers
and Electrical Networks 49
projects
North
Gaza
100,000
170,000
50,000
400,000
50,000
200,000
180,000
250,000
Middle
Khanyounis
Rafah
Beneficiaries
80,000
150,000
180,000
350,000
100,000
250,000
140,000
180,000
90,000
An overall indirect benefit includes increasing productivity of business, hospitals, schools and other services
through reduced blackout periods.
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880,000
840,000
6. Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP)
6.1 Potential Environmental and Social Impacts
6.1.1 Opportunities and Positive and Social Impacts
Overall, the social and environmental development impacts of this project are expected to be
positive. The project will contribute to the generation of direct and indirect significant positive
social and environmental impacts:
1. Improving electricity service for the citizens in all Governorates.
2. Increasing access of marginalized groups to electricity by connecting to remote
areas, including poor and agricultural areas
3. Reducing physical dangers caused by old electrical networks away from houses.
4. Reducing health hazards of operating diesel and benzene generators, which were
used for irrigated areas.
5. increasing public awareness of rights and responsibilities, services to be provided,
fees, access and dispute resolution mechanisms through communication, outreach
and citizen participation
6. Reducing the problem of electricity cuts for the citizens who get the electricity from
old networks and connecting the remote areas which lie along the distribution lines.
7. Reduce operating diesel and benzene generators which used for irrigating the
agricultural areas; this will maintain the safety of environment and the citizen health.
8. Reduce operating the generators used by citizens in their houses and shops due to
electricity cuts due to very technical reasons related to the network , this will maintain
the safety of the environment and reduce the noise level resulted from these
generators .
9. Providing employment opportunities for engineers, technicians, and local contractors
to work in the implementation of the project, which include both men and women.
10. Enhancing citizen electricity system satisfaction with the services provided by
GEDCO in the project areas and building of public trust in GEDCO
11. Reducing electricity theft by installing new isolated lines.
12. An overall indirect benefit includes increasing productivity of business, hospitals,
schools and other services through reduced blackout periods.
13. Reduced chances of casualties from generators blowing up with diesel leakage, with
reduced reliance on generators.
14. Increased access to water for residents in overhead tanks due to better and
increased supply of electricity.
15. Provision of better and enhanced services in hospitals and fewer casualties (e.g.
babies in incubators).
16. Increased and continuous supply of treated wastewater to farms from sewage
treatment plants, etc.
18
6.1.2 The Negative Impacts
1. The Public health and the effects of the Overhead networks on the population
(very low negative effect): The magnetic overhead field doesn't exceed 30cm around
the 22 kv conductor, where GEDCo fixes the first phase by the side of the buildings to
be 200 cm away from the people.
2. Excavation waste (very low negative effect) whether it is for planting a base or for
cable laying: The Contractor shall get rid of remnants of excavation in safe places
that have been previously selected by the concerned municipality. Common sense
civil works-related codes shall be followed by the contractor such as the vehicles
transporting such excavation waste shall be completely covered. The contractor shall
repair any damage of the infrastructures and shall restore the work site to its previous
position as it was. These are part of the general conditions and the contractor will not
be paid unless GEDCo makes sure the contractor comply with these conditions.
3. Harming/ prejudicing the burying historical, cultural properties (almost no
negative effect): The Authority of historical archaeology has determined the sites
where it is expected to find Historical archaeological values; these sites are known to
the municipalities. When GEDCo proposes a project location it has to be agreed by
the concerned municipality to avoid the locations to be in the historical archaeological
sites. However, in the event of a discovery believed to be of historical archaeological
asset during construction (chance-find), the works will stop immediately the discovery
will be reported to the competent authority to take its proper course of action. The
work will be resumed after permission is given to continue.
4. Dust and air pollution (very low negative effect): The soil in Gaza Strip is either clay
or sandy soil. The Contractor is required during works to control dust by spraying
water on the earth to prevent dust from flying.
5. Noise (low negative effect): During the excavation the contactor shall undertake
works during the daytime so as to cause least disruption and inconvenience to the
local population. In the event that there are any complaints, then measurement will be
taken (55db during day and 45db during night).
6. Emission the exhausts from the vehicles (very low negative effect) : All vehicles in
the work location shall be licensed and insured and be exposed to check regarding
emission of exhausts from environment authority , and to be sure that emission rates
are not over the limited permitted.
7. Disabling the infrastructure and services due to the excavations (weak negative
impact): The process of building new networks does not require land acquisition.
Installation of the poles and transformer rooms will be through allocated land from the
municipalities concerned of the public services including the electricity networks. The
process to be followed by GEDCo is summarized by the following :
 Official letters will be sent to the municipalities and Palestinian
Telecommunication to inform them of the proposed projects locations and
requesting them to determine the places of public facilities and infrastructure
on the projects sites, this is to avoid damaging the infrastructure when
implementing the projects.
19



The proposed projects locations will be officially handed over to GEDCo by
the municipalities and Palestinian Telecommunication in the presence of
beneficiaries, the handover of the sites will include all the public facilitations
&infrastructure locations on the sites. Assuring that work will have no impacts
on the people, public service or infrastructure.
GEDCo will continue to coordinate with the municipalities and
telecommunication until completing the implementation of the projects.
If there will be any design changes, the reroute will be done on public land
and will not result in relocation or loss of shelter, loss of assets or access to
assets, or loss of income sources or means of livelihoods.
8. Disruption to traffic (weak negative impact): The sub-projects which could result in
temporary street closure and disruption to pedestrians will be carefully coordinated
with the traffic department (traffic controllers) to take the required procedures (redirect traffic if necessary) and inform the public in advance so that they are prepared
for the temporary in-convenience.
9. Public safety for the local population and workers (very weak negative impact):
The Contractor shall have full regards of and maintain safety measures and
procedures to protect works, workers, the safety and convenience of the public during
the implementation of the projects using all type of precautions and tools such as
isolating the site of the project when required, fencing, use phosphoric tapes, warning
signs etc. Lack of care or lack of information can cause accidents, Thus people living
in the area under direct influence of construction works, people moving in the vicinity,
and end point users should be informed by GEDCo regarding appropriate safety
precautions, for example:
- Not allowing children to play near construction sites (e.g. such as climbing of
the poles or fences)
- Warn children not to play with kites and slingshots near the power lines.
- Avoid trimming high trees located near the energy cables
- Avoid handling broken cables
10. Trees Trimmings (very weak negative impact ) : Its not permitted to cut any tree
during works, Rather in some of the rehabilitation projects it may include trimming of
any tree which grown high to reach the electrical networks , this will be done in
coordination with and in the presence of the representative from the concerned
municipality.
11. Soil erosion (very weak negative impact): The soil will be compacted. Also work will
be stopped during heavy rains to reduce soil erosion and accidents.
12. The waste of the electrical networks and transformer oil (very weak negative
impact )
 There will be no material waste , the discarded wooden poles are either
reused or sold, and steel poles are cut into sizes that are used as cross arms
in medium voltage networks or collected and sold for recycling
 The project design does not include replacing of transformers. Further, PCB
transformers are not allowed in Gaza through the Israeli port since 1999.
GEDCO has transformers' oil filters in its workshop that is used to filter
transformer oil which is then reused. Oil from old/discarded transformers is
20
removed, filtered and reused (refining and regeneration and reuse). The
discarded transformers are collected and sold as scrap metal. In the event of
accidental oil spills; hazardous wastes, if any, are taken in a responsible
manner to special hazardous waste cells in the Gaza city dumpsite.
 GEDCo uses this type of Transformer Oil (Viscosity = 11, Density = 0.89, and
Breaking Voltage before Treatment > 30 KV & After Treatment > 60 KV,
(NYTRO 10 GBXT or equivalent) as IEC standards 60296&60422 which
doesn't produce PCB.
13. Prepaid meters (weak negative impact ) there will be some fears from some of the
customers categories from the installation of the new system for several reasons:
 Lack of willingness to pay for electricity consumption.
 Lack of confidence of citizens in the new technology, where they fear possible
sudden cut of electricity.
 Lack of adequate knowledge of the public of the prepaid system.
 Being uncertain that GEDCo will provide adequate number of places for their
convenience for recharging.
 The negative impacts that may result from the work of installation of these
meters in houses of citizens.
GEDCo plans to install the prepaid meters only to the willing and financially able people
at this stage (GEDCo's employees, commercial, industrial sector, Residential towers) and
will not be targeting the poor people.
GEDCo will use the media and organize workshops to explain the benefits of prepayment meter system, answer the citizens' questions. GEDCo will apply the correct
procedures as stated in the ESMP plan with the designated customers for prepaid meters
before, during and after installation.
6.2 Measures /procedures of the plan of implementing the projects
The purpose of the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) is to provide
environmental standards for the project during construction and operation of project
interventions.
i.) The Contractor is required to comply with the frame of reference and standards of the
project. While this ESMP provides background information, it is the Contractor’s
responsibility to verify the accuracy of any information provided and, irrespective of any
inaccuracy or incompleteness, to comply with the frame of reference and standards.
ii.) The frame of reference for the environmental standards is to avoid impairing (a) the health
or wellbeing of people, and (b) land capability.
iii.) GEDCo should monitor compliance with the frame of reference and project standards and
report to PEA.
iv.) The ultimate responsibility for non-compliance with the standards in this document lies
solely with the contractor. GEDCo retains the right to enforce compliance with the standards
irrespective of non-compliance.
21
(ESMP) table for the electrical projects:
Phase
Activity
Measures to mitigate the activity impacts
Responsible side
To maintain the public health and to mitigate the impacts of the magnetic fields which affect
citizens lives, the proposed Medium voltage networks lines had been designed horizontally to
be away from the buildings distance not less than 2 m according to the international
standards, and in planning stage GEDCo will take into consideration that the electrical
networks do not pass over buildings and houses
GEDCo
The Contractor shall get rid of remnants of excavation in safe places that have been
previously selected by the concerned municipality. However, excavated soil/dirt will be used
to refill once cables are laid.
EQA and the contractor
Contractor
Historical and
cultural
properties
Digging works will occur only at a depth of 1 m but if any historical assets are found (chance
finds) during drilling works, the work will be stopped immediately. The contractor will inform
Archeology institution and work will not be resumed except after getting the required
permission or finding an alternative project route.
The vehicles used for transporting the materials will be covered and water will be sprayed
during windy or stormy weather.
Contractor
Dust
Contractor
Noise
During the excavation the contactor shall undertake works during the daytime so as to cause
least disruption and inconvenience to the local population. In the event that there are any
complaints, then measurement will be taken (55db during day and 45db during night).
Contractor
Emission of
exhausts
All vehicles in the work location shall be licensed and insured and be exposed to check
regarding emission of exhausts from environment authority, and to be sure that emission
rates are not over the permitted limit.
Public health
Excavation
waste
Process of
Implementing
the projects
22
To avoid any damages that may occur to the communication cables, water networks, waste
and rainwater, the contractor shall inform and get the required permissions/licenses before
starting drilling and taking the required precautions in order not to harm the infrastructure. In
the event that this happens inadvertently, the contractor will repair any damage immediately.
Contractor
Traffic Authority and
Contractor
Traffic Jam
To avoid or minimize expected traffic jam in places where digging will take place, good
coordination with relevant institutions such as municipalities, police traffic will be observed.
This can reduce the impact to a minimum. There will also be official
declarations/announcements of road closures as a result of excavations before the start of the
project.
Contractor
Public Safety
The work sites will be closed at the installation of the poles and wires to the public, and
signage will be placed to illustrate clearly the areas of excavation to avoid falling and
accidents. The workers will be equipped in the workplace with safety equipment such as
personal protective shoes and clothing, caps, goggles; appropriate to the nature of work
situation as well as warning signals of phosphorus in the project sites, in order to maintain the
safety of visitors to work sites. All who enter the work site will be provided with helmet and
signs. Only specialist workers will be allowed to operate any machinery and equipment in
order to reduce the incidence of accidents. As much as possible, implementation of any part
of the project will be avoided during the night hours.
Trees
It may be needed to cut some stems and leaves of trees that are very close to the proposed
power lines after taking the necessary permissions from the owners of these trees
(municipalities) taken not to damage the these trees.
GEDCo and the
contractor
Soil erosion
To prevent soil erosion during the digging process for the bases of the poles or to bury the
underground cable, the soil will be compacted. Also work will be stopped during heavy rains
to reduce soil erosion and accidents.
Contractor
Restore the
work site as it
was
Work site will be restored as it was and any damage to the surrounding land and roads will be
repaired.
Contractor
Disabling the
infrastructure
and services
due to
excavations
23
Loss of
Housing or
access to
assets
loss of income
sources or
means of
livelihood's
All the project activities, even if there will design changes, will be done on public land and will
not result in: (i) involuntary taking of land; (ii) relocation or resettlement; (iii) loss of assets or
access to assets, and (iv) loss of income sources or means of livelihood.

Prepaid
meters
Before
installation
Prepaid
meters
During
installation
Prepaid
meters After
installation
The fear of
citizens
Notice for the
Citizens







Public Safety
Technical
Support
Sale centers



GEDCo plans to install the prepaid meters only to the willing people and the financially
able people in this stage: (GEDCo's employees, commercial, industrial sector,
residential towers) and will not be targeting the poor people.
Media campaign will be implemented (local radio - newspapers - GEDCo's website).
Explanatory brochures will be distributed with the bills.
Workshops will be held to explain the benefits of pre-payment meter system and to
answer the citizens' questions.
Citizens will be notified of the dates of installation of prepaid meters.
Field visits will be organized to the installation places
Following the field visits to the installation places and determining the materials
needed for installation, GEDCo will provide all the needed equipment and material.
In order to maintain the safety of workers and the customers in the work site, all those
who enter the work site will be provided the tools necessary for safety.
GEDCo will work to put back the work place as it was before and will repair any
damage that may result from works during installation.
There will be technical support given around the clock through the allocation of
landline phones in all branches also technical support units will be formed in all
branches.
GEDCo will provide points of sale in the collection centers and all branches.
GEDCo
GEDCo
GEDCo
GEDCo
GEDCo
GEDCo
Cost for implementing the mitigation measures as outlined above will be embedded in the works contract as part of the contractor's responsibility.
A monitoring plan will be used as the monitoring stages required ensuring conformity with the principles and procedures laid down in the national
environmental legislation during the planning project design construction and operation activities of the proposed Gaza Electricity Network
Rehabilitation Project.
24
7. Monitoring Protocol for electrical Lines
7.1 Monitoring Plan
A detailed environmental monitoring plan has been developed to verify that predictions of
environmental impacts are accurate and that unforeseen impacts are detected at an early
stage and allow corrective measures to be implemented, if needed. During the construction
phase the plan provides for dust, noise, visual impacts, service disruption and safety
monitoring.
During the operation period, monitoring is planned in terms of routine inspection of the health
and safety of the workers and general public.
The Monitoring Plan is developed and presented at the end of this report as part of the
ESMP.Environmental monitoring is an essential component of project implementation. It
facilitates and ensures the follow-up of the implementation of the proposed mitigation
measure, as they are required. It helps to anticipate possible environmental hazards and/or
detect unpredicted impacts over time. Monitoring includes:



Visual observations
Selection of environmental parameters at specific locations;
Sampling and regular testing of these parameters.
Monitoring should be undertaken at a number of levels. Firstly, it should be undertaken by
the Contractor at work sites during construction, under the direction and guidance of the
GEDCo who is responsible for reporting the monitoring to the implementing agencies PMU.
Table below outlines the overall package of environmental monitoring measures that will be
implemented in relation to the facility as outlined in detail. The table also assigns general
responsibilities for implementing each group of monitoring measures. A detailed
implementation these costs are therefore described as ‘Within contract budget’ in Table
below. Similarly, monitoring measures that will be carried out by GEDCO staff, with no
additional expenditure required, are described as ‘Within operational budget’ in Table below.
What
Parameter to be
Monitored
Where
is the parameter
to be
monitored?
Worker safety
At construction
site
Excavation Waste
At construction
site
Historical ,cultural
and archaeological
Assets
At construction
site
Dust levels
At construction
site
When
is the parameter to
be
monitored
frequency
of measurement or
continuous?
Monitoring
Cost
What is the cost
of
equipment or
contractor
charges to
perform
monitoring
Responsibility
Weekly random
times
none
Construction
Contractor
Weekly:
Random times
Weekly
Minor
Construction
Contractor
Visual
Continuously
Minor
Construction
Contractor
Dust visible
Weekly, more
frequently
during dry, windy
weather
Minor
Construction
Contractor
How
are the parameter to
be
monitored/ type of
monitoring
equipment?
Visual: Worker
wearing
Equipment
Visual:
Trucks covered or
ground watered
25
Noise Levels
At construction
site
Machinery
engine
emissions
At construction
site
Disruption of local
traffic patterns
Roads at or
near
construction site
Public Safety
At construction
site
Trees Trimming
Soil Erosion
Observing noise
level and taking
measurement only if
there are complaints
from residents
Visual:
Examine engine
exhaust
Certification
Visual:
Alternate
routes clearly
indicated
Continuously
Minor
Construction
Contractor
Equipment first
comes
to project site
Minor
Construction
Contractor
During traffic jams
Minor
Construction
Contractor and
Traffic Police
Visual
Continuously
Minor
At construction
site
Visual
Continuously
Minor
At construction
site
Visual
Continuously
Minor
Accidents
At construction
site
Safety training
for workers,
accident
reports,
community
consultation
Monthly
Restoration of
work site
At work
site
Visual
at the end of work
period
Construction
Contractor
GEDCo
Construction
Contractor
Construction
Contractor
Construction
Contractor
Minor
Construction
Contractor
7.2 Implementation Arrangements
The proposed Project will be implemented by the existing Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) at
PEA, which is currently handling the implementation of other Bank and donor financed
projects including the EUMP. The PMU is staffed with a director, procurement, financial
management, accountant and other relevant staff. Key members of the PMU are
experienced in implementing similar projects under the Bank’s procurement guidelines,
policies and procedures. Therefore, the PMU will be responsible for handling all procurement
and financial management issues related to the proposed Project. The PMU will also be
responsible for coordination with GEDCo, World Bank and government authorities on the
supply of equipment and materials to GEDCo and contract execution. GEDCo's Technical
Department will be responsible for the implementation of the Project including the
procurement and supervision of local contractors in Gaza for the installation and civil works.
Therefore GEDCo will be responsible for implementation of contracts/works, and will report
to the PMU on implementation of contracts (including compliance with ESMP). GEDCo will
be responsible for supervising the contractor and thereby ensuring that all project works are
in compliance with the ESMP. GEDCo has the capacity to undertake supervision of works
and to ensure compliance with the required environmental measures. The PMU will be
responsible to aggregate information on compliance with the ESMP, and include as a section
in the reporting to the World Bank. Further, capacity of GEDCo’s Environment Safety Unit will
be strengthened on World Bank safeguard policies, requirements and reporting.
26
8. CONCLUSION
Based on field work and consultations with project affected people, local and national
government agencies and other organizations it is clear that the project will result in
significant positive social and environmental impacts.
The project will contribute to the generation of significant social and Environmental
development outcomes. The main benefits as a result of the project is that it will improve the
reliability of electricity networks; reduce losses; improve the safety of the electricity network;
and reduce power outages. Some other benefits include improving electricity service for the
citizens in all Governorates; reducing physical dangers caused by old electrical networks
away from houses; reducing the problem of electricity cuts for the citizens who get the
electricity from old networks; connecting the remote areas with electricity, which lie along
the distribution lines; and reducing operating the generators used by citizens in their houses
and shops due to electricity cuts, and this will maintain the safety of the environment and
also reduce the noise level resulting from these generators. There will be a very small
incremental increase in power supply, however, as a result of project interventions; the
network will be prepared and ready for handling additional power supply when it comes into
Gaza.
Any potential negative environmental impacts will be temporary, site-specific, reversible and
minor in nature. Further, any adverse impacts will be during the construction phase and can
be mitigated with the implementation of standard good practice construction codes by the
contractor and measures outlined in the ESMP. Positive social and environmental impacts
will far outweigh potential negative impacts.
27
Annex (1)
Map of the Project area
28
Annex (2)
REFERENCES
1- Palestinian National Authority - Energy & Natural Resources Authority Electric Utility Management Project (EUMP) - Environment and Social Safeguards
Documents.
2- World Bank Group (1999): THE WORLD BANK OPERATIONAL MANUAL - Operational
Policies – OP401 -Environmental Assessment.
3. Project Concept Note for Gaza Electricity Network Rehabilitation Project - World Bank
4. Environmental Assessment and Management Plan (EAMP) for Palestine Electric Utility
Management Project (EUMP) – World Bank
5- ISO 14001 - Environmental management systems Requirements with guidance for use.
6- World Bank (1994a). Environmental Assessment Sourcebook, Volume I: Policies,
Procedures and Cross-Sectoral Issues.
7- Palestinian National Authority - Palestinian Environmental Law NO (7) 1999
8- Palestinian National Authority - Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics General Census of Population and Housing, and Establishment -2007
29
Annex (3)
List of Consulted Stakeholders
30
List of consulted stakeholders:
Gaza Governorate list of participants’ page1:
31
Gaza Governorate list of participants’ page2:
32
North Governorate list of participants list:
33
Khanyounis Governorate list of participants’ page1:
34
Khanyounis Governorate list of participants’ page2:
35
Khanyounis Governorate list of participants’ page3:
36
Middle Governorate list of participants’ page1:
37
Middle Governorate list of participants’ page2:
38
Rafah Governorate list of participants’ page1:
39
Rafah Governorate list of participants’ page2:
40
Annex (4)
Record of five Public Consultations
41
a) Date , time , Location of the consultations:
Five Public Consultations were held in each of the five governorates as follows:
-
Gaza Governorate: The public consultation for Gaza Governorate was held on Sunday 16October 2011, 02:00 pm, Gaza City- Al-Remal - Ahmed Bin Abid Alazeez Street, Alkhozindar
Building the 7th flour.
-
North Governorate: The public consultation for the North Governorate was held on Monday
17- October 2011, 10:30 am in Farah Hall East of Alskeikh Zayid round about.
-
Khanyounis Governorate: The public consultation for Khanyounis Governorate was held on
Saturday 22- October 2011, 10:30 am in Khanyounis Municipality Hall.
-
Middle Governorate: The public consultation for the Middle Governorate was held on Sunday
23- October 2011, 12:00 pm in Salsabeel Hall on Salah Eldin Street.
-
Rafah Governorate: The public consultation for Rafah Governorate was held on Monday 24October 2011, 10:30 am in Nationalism association for Democracy' hall in Zouroub Tower the
second flour.
b) GEDCo's Panels for the open meetings:
GEDCo's Panel for Gaza Governorate open meeting
1. Eng. Gazi Elsalhi
GEDCo's General Manager Assistant
2. Mr. Jamal Elderdisawi
Public Relation Manager
3. Eng. Mohamad Hamad
Gaza Technical Manager
4. Eng. Magdi Yagi
Precautions &Safety Manager
5. Eng. Wael Ahmed
Head of Studies & Documentation Section
GEDCo's Panel for North Governorate open meeting
1. Eng. Kamel Rabah
GEDCo Technical Department Manager
2. Eng. Gazi Elsalhi
GEDCo's General Manager Assistant
3. Eng. Magdi Yagi
Precautions &Safety Manager
4. Eng. Wael Ahmed
Head of Studies & Documentation Section
5. Eng. Nidal Abou Owda
Public Relation Section North Governorate
GEDCo's Panel for Khanyounis Governorate open meeting
1. Eng. Gazi Elsalhi
GEDCo's General Manager Assistant
2. Mr. Jamal Elderdisawi
Public Relation Manager
3. Eng. Kamal Elqarra
Khanyounis Technical Manager
4. Eng. Wael Ahmed
Head of Studies & Documentation Section
5. Mr. Mohamad Elseedi
Public Relation section Khanyounis
42
GEDCo's Panel for Middle Governorate open meeting:
1. Eng. Gazi Elsalhi
GEDCo's General Manager Assistant
2. Mr. Jamal Elderdisawi
Public Relation Manager
3. Eng. Magdi Yagi
Precautions &Safety Manager
4. Eng. Yousif Abou Yousif
Middle Technical Manager
GEDCo's Panel for Rafah Governorate open meeting:
1. Eng. Gazi Elsalhi
GEDCo's General Manager Assistant
2. Eng. Yousif Abou Dagah
Rafah Branch Manager
3. Mr. Jamal Elderdisawi
Public Relation Manager
4. Eng. Magdi Yagi
Precautions &Safety Manager
5. Eng. Hassan Ateia
Technical Engineer – Rafah
GEDCo's Staff assisting in the open meetings:
1. Mr. Mohamad Alhasaina
Photographer – Designer
2. Mr. Tamir Elefranji
Video Recording
43
c) Sample of the invitations and the Banner used:
44
45
d) GEDCo's opening the meetings:
1. GEDCo welcomed the participants and thanked them for their presence.
2. GEDCo thanked the World Bank for its roles to help and support the Palestinian
People and in Particular it’s continues support to the energy sector and for financing
the new project to improve the electricity situation in the Gaza Strip.
3. Explain the new electricity project and discuss the pre-paid meter system: in details
explain about the projects proposed to be implemented in each Governorate and the
positive impacts for these projects to improve the electricity situation, and the
significant positive Environmental and social impacts.
4. Discuss the projects' negative impacts which expected to be minimal, temporary and
site-specific and GEDCo's mitigations measures and its procedures with the
contractors to reduce these negative impacts.
5. Open up the discussion for the attendants for their fears and concerns related to the
implementation of the projects.
e) Summary of the Questions and Answers:
Q: What will be the targeted customer categories for the installing of the prepaid
meters?
A: GEDCo explained that this is a good system which can help in energy conservation
and allow the customers to control expenditure and budget besides controlling
consumption, this besides improve collection. its widely used in the West Bank and
GEDCo plans here in this project to install the prepaid meters to the willing people and
the able people : (GEDCo's employees, commercial , industrial sector , Residential
towers ) and will not be targeting the poor people in this first stage.
Q: Are there will be land-take for electrical installations which will affect livelihoods
and is there a plan for compensation for the affected families?
A: GEDCo assured to the people that the process of building new networks , the
installation of the poles and transformers rooms in the projects do not require land
acquisition , GEDCo has as necessary required and as always began to communicate
and coordinate with the municipalities, ministries and stakeholders for the selection of
project sites proposed to be in the public streets and do not fall in the property of the
citizens and not to be inconsistent with the infrastructure during the implementation .
GEDCo confirmed that in case of a complaint by any citizen, should be submitted in
writing to GEDCo's management, and will be worked on with the citizen to resolve the
dispute and resolve the issue.
Q: Are the projects designed to benefit all areas and all citizens in the Gaza Strip
and that the medium electrical networks to be away from the people according to
the technical standards?
A: GEDCo has done the planning for the projects in the best ways and methods to
improve the electricity sector and to benefit all the citizens in Gaza Strip taking into
consideration the people safety and taking into consideration minimal negative
Environmental and Social impacts. In this regard any project will be implemented in any
46
Governorate will benefit all the people in the as mentioned Governorate directly or
indirectly and will contribute to benefit indirectly the other people in the other
Governorates. In regard to the Overhead medium networks, they have been planed to be
installed away from the houses in accordance with international technical standards.
Q: We request GEDCo to take its procedures to oblige the contractor to protect the
public safety?
A: GEDCo confirmed its commitment to the people that it will take its procedures that the
contractor shall have full regards of and maintain safety measures and procedures to
protect works, workers, the safety and convenience of the public during the
implementation of the projects. And in the case of closing the workplace, GEDCo require
the contractor to make walkways and corridors allow citizens of movement and accessing
to their property and other sources of livelihood.
Q: Get rid of excavation waste as soon as possible and make sure to repair any
damage to the infrastructure during the process of project implementation?
A: The contractor shall get rid of remnants of excavation in safe places selected by the
concerned municipality. In addition the contractor is obliged to repair any damage to land,
roads and infrastructure, if any, during the implementation of projects and in coordination
with the concerned authorities and municipalities in order to restore the work site to its
previous position as it was.
Q: We request GEDCo to take its procedures to oblige the contractor control dust
and reduce noise and to reduce disruptions to traffic and to avoid working at times
of peak traffic especially in areas where traffic jams around the community such as
universities and hospitals?
A: GEDCo will seek to reduce these effects throughout following up the work with
contractors, and the speed of accomplishment and the good coordination with the
concerned municipalities. The Contractor is required during works to control dust by
spraying water on the workplace to prevent dust from flying, also the vehicles
transporting such excavation waste shall be covered. Also During the excavation the
contactor shall reduce noise resulting from excavations or movement of transporting
vehicles to the permitted level. In the areas where traffic jams around the community
such as universities and hospitals GEDCo will seek to reduce disruptions to traffic and to
avoid working at times of peak traffic or do the construction at night when necessary and
when possible.
Q: The effect of the project to create jobs to the people in the Gaza Strip?
A. The project will help to provide employment opportunities for engineers, technicians,
and local contractors to work in the implementation of the project, which include both men
and women.
Q: Dose GEDCo has plan for the waste of material?
A. There will be no materials waste; the discarded electrical and steel materials are either
reused in the electrical networks or sold for recycling. So nothing will be wasted.
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Q: Will the projects increase the available quantity of electricity?
A. One of the expected impact and benefits of the proposed projects is to increase the
network capacity. One of the projects is to construct three new 22 kV underground
feeders from the Gaza Power Plant (GPP) to load centers in Gaza city to transmit
additional electricity supply from GPP which will be available when the ongoing
expansion of the GPP substation is completed at the beginning of next year. The feeders
will add a total of 36 MW to the network capacity. Also there will be another project to
construct phase 1 of the 22 kV underground feeders from the proposed 161 kV north
Substation to Gaza and North Governorates.
Q: We suffer from the generators which negatively affects the environment (air
pollution and noise) what the impact of the projects on this issue?
A. the proposed project will increase supply of electricity and reduce outages as a result
will reduce use of diesel generators. This will reduce noise and air pollution and will
reduce probability of casualties from generators blowing up due to diesel leakage.
Q: What the impacts of the projects to improve the voltage to the people and
reduce blackouts?
A. the projects will help in reduction of the networks faults which will reduce the
blackouts, also there will be about 124 projects of networks rehabilitation in addition to
installation about 70 transformers which will improve voltage performance and solve the
voltage drop.
Q: have the projects been planned to serve future increase demand, and will they
be synchronized with future interconnection with Egypt or the 161KV line?
A. the cross sections of the cables , wires and capacity of the transformers in the
proposed projects were chosen to match current and future loads , also the proposed
project of construction three feeders from the power plant to the load centers in Gaza will
be useful in future interconnection with Egypt. The phase 1 project of the 22 kV
underground feeders from the proposed 161 kV North Substation will be used when the
161kv project and the rehabilitation of the north substation are completed.
Q: what is the schedule of implementing the projects, when they will start and
when they will be completed?
A. The Grant is expected to be approved in February 2012 , in September we expect that
supply of material will be completed , then the installation and civil works will start as we
expect that mid of 2013 all the projects would be completed.
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g) Conclusion:
The carried out public consultations were very informative and enriched the ESIA. The
projects are expected to attain significant important environmental and social benefits that
overweigh any limited adverse environmental and social impacts, which could be mitigated
through the implementation of the proposed Environmental and Social Management Plan.
h) Photos of five Public Consultations:
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i) Information for the public on GEDCo's website:
Please refer to the following links:
http://www.gedco.ps/public_consultaions.php
http://www.gedco.ps/print.php?id=260
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