Uzbekistan Achieves 25-30% Green Energy Usage, Reduces Reliance on Thermal Power
In Uzbekistan, the shift towards renewable energy sources has seen a significant increase in recent years. According to the Ministry of Energy, the share of electricity produced by “green” power plants in 2024 has reached 25-30%, marking a substantial decrease in the reliance on thermal power plants.
Since 2021, Uzbekistan has seen the launch of 10 “green” power plants, consisting of nine solar and one wind power plant with a combined capacity exceeding 2,500 megawatts. Additionally, the country boasts hydroelectric power plants with a total capacity surpassing 2,200 megawatts.
Just three years ago, thermal power plants accounted for 90% of Uzbekistan’s electricity sector, with only 10% generated from hydroelectric power plants. However, thanks to the introduction of “green” power plants, the share of electricity produced by thermal power plants has decreased to 70%, making way for a more sustainable energy mix.
In the first half of 2024, solar and wind power plants produced 1.6 billion kWh of electricity, while hydroelectric power plants contributed 4.1 billion kWh, amounting to a total of 5.7 billion kWh. This shift towards renewable energy has resulted in significant savings, with 1.727 billion cubic meters of natural gas conserved and nearly 2.4 million tons of harmful gases prevented from being released into the atmosphere.
Furthermore, the ministry highlighted that the electricity generated from “green” power plants in the first half of 2024 could cover the six-month social norm for over 1.3 million households. The reduction in coal power production is also evident, with coal plants producing 19.4% less electricity in 2024 compared to the previous year.
By utilizing modern energy-efficient thermal power plants, Uzbekistan has managed to increase production volumes while reducing fuel consumption. The specific fuel consumption for thermal power plants decreased by 8% from 2020 to 2023, showcasing the country’s commitment to sustainable energy practices.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Energy aims to further increase the share of electricity produced by solar, wind, and hydroelectric power plants. By 2030, it is projected that over 40% of Uzbekistan’s total electricity production will come from renewable sources, demonstrating a continued focus on transitioning towards a greener energy landscape.
