Nationalization of ENA is irreversible: Pashinyan outlines two management scenarios for the company
YEREVAN, September 20. /ARKA/. The process of nationalization of Electric Networks of Armenia (ENA) power distribution company is both irreversible and undeniable; it will unfold according to various scenarios, as stated by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.
"I observe that certain individuals in this sector are nurturing unrealistic expectations, but I must emphasize that the process is irreversible and undeniable; it will unfold according to several scenarios. The first scenario involves the nationalization of ENA, placing it under professional management, thereby making it entirely state-owned. Alternatively, it may be handed over to a reputable international manager. The second scenario could be considered if the expenses associated with the first scenario are found to be disproportionately burdensome for the state budget," he remarked during the 7th Congress of the ruling Civil Contract Party on Saturday.
He added that the fraudulent practices already uncovered at ENA during inspections are sufficient to justify concerns regarding management during the previous period. Pashinyan believes that the poor quality of energy supply in the regions was a pretext for fueling popular political discontent against the government.
"We will not allow such games to be played with the Republic of Armenia. Let everyone take this to heart and draw conclusions," Pashinyan stated.
Electric Networks of Armenia CJSC oversees medium and low-voltage distribution networks in Armenia, catering to approximately 1 million subscribers. Since 2016, ENA's owner, Tashir Group, has invested around $680 million in the modernization of the company alone, with an additional $150-200 million allocated for the establishment of new capacity. drams.
Samvel Karapetyan, President of the Tashir Group, has been in custody since June 18, 2025, facing charges of publicly inciting a power seizure. This situation arose following Karapetyan's meeting with Catholicos of All Armenians Garegin. He said that he has consistently supported the Armenian Church and the Armenian people, and if politicians fail, "we are prepared to engage in all of this in our own manner." Subsequently, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan declared the readiness of the ENA nationalization initiative, emphasizing that the procedure would be executed in accordance with Armenian law.
The relevant amendments to the laws "On Energy" and "On the Public Services Regulatory Commission" were passed on July 3 and endorsed by the President on July 8. On July 18, the Chairman of the Public Services Regulatory Commission of Armenia appointed Romanos Petrosyan as the interim manager of the Electric Networks of Armenia.-0