Uzbekistan to Repair Red-Category Transformers by 1 September

Uzbekistan aims to finalize the refurbishment and readiness of all "red" category transformers and associated power grid infrastructure for the upcoming autumn-winter season by September 1st. This announcement was made by Sardor Isakulov, Chairman of Regional Electrical Grids JSC, during an interview with O‘zbekiston 24 television.

Isakulov reported that President Shavkat Mirziyoyev received an update on this progress on August 6th. This review followed up on directives issued during a July 27th video conference focused on the fuel and energy sector.

While generating capacity has expanded and the transmission grid has been modernized over the past decade, Isakulov highlighted that the primary challenges remain within regional low-voltage distribution networks. These networks are the source of most power outage complaints from both residents and businesses.

To prepare for winter, technical inspections of transformer substations and power lines are being conducted in areas experiencing frequent outages and high outstanding accounts. Critical attention is being paid to "red" category facilities, which are mandated to be fully repaired and operational by September 1st. Additionally, an inventory of power supply facilities and an inspection of electricity meters are underway in every mahalla, in collaboration with local community officials.

Isakulov characterized the upcoming autumn-winter period as a crucial test of the energy system's capacity to deliver consistent power to both the populace and the business sector.

Akhadkhon Isokzhonov, Head of the Inspectorate for Control over the Use of Electricity, Petroleum Products and Gas under the Cabinet of Ministers (Uzenergoinspektsiya), stated that the agency has initiated the digitalization of state control and the integration of artificial intelligence for data analysis.

To achieve this, a "Digital Office" electronic platform is under development, designed to encompass the processes of energy resource extraction, processing, and consumption. Concurrently, the inspectorate is analyzing factors that impede the provision of public services to businesses.

Sharaf-Rashidov, Kasan, and Denau districts have been chosen as pilot areas for these new approaches. In Sharaf-Rashidov District, approximately 40 of the 65 "red" category transformer substations have already undergone repairs.

In the latter half of the year, Uzenergoinspektsiya will intensify its efforts to control illegal energy use, integrate AI technologies into public service delivery for entrepreneurs, and produce monthly performance ratings for repairs on "red" category transformer substations, electrical networks, and gas distribution units.

The agency also intends to monitor adherence to recommendations derived from energy audits.