New energy projects will strengthen Uzbekistan's energy independence, says minister
Energy Minister Sherzod Khodjaev stated that, if current development rates are maintained, the share of green energy in Uzbekistan could exceed the established target of 54% by 2030. New projects include large thermal power plants, energy storage facilities, solar and wind farms.
New energy projects will strengthen Uzbekistan's energy independence, Energy Minister Sherzod Khodjaev said in an interview with the Uzbekistan 24 television channel following the launch ceremony of new facilities in the country's regions.
Uzbekistan plans to increase the share of green energy to 54% by 2030, but this figure could be exceeded if the current pace continues.
According to the Minister of Energy, five energy facilities worth over 20 trillion soums were commissioned at an event attended by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
"It is worth noting that each of these facilities is unique in its own right. In particular, one of the largest thermal power plants in Central Asia has been launched. Two of the largest energy storage systems in Central Asia have also been commissioned," said Sherzod Khodjaev.
A combined solar power project, involving both solar energy generation and battery storage, has been launched in the Nurata district of Navoi region.
"The launch of these projects will undoubtedly strengthen Uzbekistan's energy independence and create the foundation for attracting new investment. It's worth noting that green energy plays a significant role among the projects launched today," the minister stated.
A 200 MW wind farm has been commissioned in Karakalpakstan. It marks the second phase of the project in the Karauzyak district.
"Our esteemed president launched the first project two years ago. This is the second phase. Overall, the pace of green energy development in Uzbekistan is very high. The goal is to increase [its share] to 54% by 2030, but I believe that if we maintain this momentum, we can achieve even higher results," said Sherzod Khodjaev.
He added that the conditions and investment environment created in the country are conducive to attracting foreign investors to the energy sector.
At a ceremony attended by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the launch of 72 major investment projects and 91 social facilities worth 50 trillion soums was announced.
This included energy capacity in several regions. Specifically, in the Syrdarya region, a 1,573 MW generating capacity was discussed; in Karakalpakstan, a 200 MW wind farm and a 100 MW energy storage system; and in the Navoi region, projects expected to generate 657 million kWh of electricity per year were announced.
Furthermore, it was announced at the event that a 300 MW solar power plant with a 150 MW energy storage system is being commissioned in the Nurata district of the Navoi region. According to regional authorities, the total capacity of solar and wind power plants launched in the Navoi region reaches approximately 2 GW.
A 200 MW energy storage facility costing $200 million was unveiled in the Namangan region. The region also operates two 500 MW solar power plants, and hydropower projects with a total capacity of approximately 300 MW are under development in the Chust, Chartak, Naryn, and Uychi districts. Another 200 MW project has been announced in the Pap district.