EVALUATING NATURAL-ECOLOGICAL AND HYDROLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF WATER RESERVOIRS FOR SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: A CASE STUDY OF THE SARSANG RESERVOIR, AZERBAIJAN

This study analyzes the key natural-ecological, hydrological, and energy-production characteristics of the Sarsang Reservoir and its surrounding area, with particular focus on the Sarsang Hydropower Plant (SHHP). The authors employed a comparative-geographical method to analyze and correlate relevant parameters of major reservoirs in the Republic of Azerbaijan. Core geomorphological and bioclimatic parameters of the study area were calculated. For the first time, the De Martonne’s bioclimate index was applied to assess the territorial suitability from a bioclimatic perspective. Based on the research findings, recommendations have been proposed within the framework of a Coastal Ecosystem Management Plan (CEMP).