During visit to the Bereza hydroelectric power station, the Head of State was reported on the fulfilment of his instructions, aiming to develop the Belarusian power system
Modernisation of Bereza hydroelectric power station will allow big savings
According to Belarus’ Energy Minister, Vladimir Potupchik, as a result of modernisation of the Belarusian power system, gas saving totalled 2.058bn cubic metres which is equivalent to $650m. According to him, the adopted measures enable us to save 1.130bn cubic metres of gas, which is equivalent to $260m, starting from 2015.
Mr. Potupchik noted that although Belarus pays 1.7 times more for gas compared to Russia, the cost of electricity and heat energy production is the same. However, energy rates for Belarus’ production sector are higher. According to the minister, this situation is the result of cross-subsidising. Cross-subsidies are the reason why households in Belarus pay 5 times less for energy than those in Russia. Mr. Potupchik noted that energy rates have been reduced for the production sector for the first time in 2014. This year, cross-subsidies have been cut by $250m.
The President was also informed about the socio-economic development of the Brest Region. Mr. Lukashenko also asked about the Region’s progress in the harvesting campaign, production figures and agricultural sales.
The President of Belarus has promised to increase teachers’ salaries gradually. “We have no other option but to increase salaries for teachers,” noted the Head of State. He reminded that it had already been done for kindergarten employees.
Mr. Lukashenko did not provide specific figures, but assured, “We will discuss the issue regarding the pay rise. In the nearest future, most likely in September, you will learn about it,” added the President.
