Environmental impacts and society perception of hydroelectric power plants (Loç Valley case)

As the world population grows in parallel with urbanization and industrialization developments, the demand for energy increases. Countries are in search of new energy resources apart from the existing fossil energy sources. In this context, the hydroelectric energy produced by the use of water's movement power brings up the construction of new HEPPs and dams in addition to those available as renewable energy sources. In this study, the predicted environmental effects of Cide Regulator and Hydroelectric Power Plant that planned to be built on Devrekani Creek in Cide District of Kastamonu Province were investigated. In this context, a survey was conducted with the participation of local people, non-governmental organizations and public institutions. As a result of the study, it is revealed that the hydroelectric power plant which is to be established will have a negative effect on the natural balance on the region and it is also revealed that the majority of the inhabitants of the region are oppose the hydroelectric power plant to be established in the region. In addition, it was understood that the plant, which is to be established at the border of Küre Mountains National Park, could cause irreversible damage on flora, fauna and virgin forests. Keywords: Hydroelectric Power Plant, Loch Valley, Environmental Impact Assessment, Cide, Kastamonu