Uzbekistan to Increase Green Energy Capacity, Cutting Emissions by 21 Million Tons Each Year
Uzbekistan Plans to Enhance Green Energy Capacity by Over 20 Gigawatts
The Ministry of Energy of Uzbekistan has unveiled ambitious plans to bolster the capacity of “green” power stations in the country, with the goal of increasing output by more than 20 gigawatts in the next six years. This initiative is expected to generate 50 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity, resulting in significant natural gas savings of nearly 15 billion cubic meters annually.
The announcement was made during a panel session titled “Prospects for the Development of Green Energy” at the International Cooperation Initiatives Week in Tashkent. The event brought together representatives from the Ministry of Energy, international experts, and foreign investors to discuss the future of renewable energy in Uzbekistan.
One of the key highlights of the session was the perspective shared by Anthony Brinkhuizen, the regional head of construction for ACWA Power. Brinkhuizen emphasized Uzbekistan’s potential as a regional energy hub and highlighted ACWA Power’s involvement in 15 projects within the country. He underscored the importance of developing renewable energy, hydrogen energy, and hydropower as crucial components of the transition to green energy. Brinkhuizen also mentioned the company’s work on a green hydrogen project, which is poised to be a significant milestone for Uzbekistan’s clean energy efforts.
Additionally, a representative from Masdar, the company behind the largest wind energy project in Central Asia, commended Uzbekistan for its clear targets for increasing energy capacities by 2030. Abdulla Zayed, Director of Development & Investment for Asia and Africa at Masdar, announced plans to double energy capacity in collaboration with Uzbekistan, highlighting the positive changes in the investment landscape and the strengthening of cooperative relations.
According to the Ministry of Energy, Uzbekistan has signed 50 agreements with foreign investors over the past six years for the construction of thermal, solar, and wind power stations, amounting to a total investment value of $29.234 billion. The goal of establishing 50 modern power stations across the country is well underway.
Currently, Uzbekistan has nine solar power stations and one wind power station with a total capacity of 2.7 gigawatts producing “green” energy in seven regions. Future plans include the construction and modernization of 120,000 kilometers of electricity transmission lines, 105 substations, and over 35,000 transformers by 2030. The country’s commitment to enhancing green energy capacity and infrastructure signifies a significant step towards a sustainable energy future.
