Uzbekistan green energy: Impressive EU Project Ends, Boosting Sustainable Energy
A pivotal chapter in Central Asia’s renewable energy transition has concluded with the official completion of the European Union-funded Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA) project. After a four-year mandate that ran from March 2022 to May 2026, the initiative’s achievements were celebrated at a closing roundtable in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on February 18, 2026. The event convened key stakeholders to reflect on the project’s substantial contributions to building a more resilient and sustainable regional energy sector.
Policy Strengthening and Investment Pathways in Uzbekistan
The SECCA project focused on providing strategic policy advice, technical assistance, and capacity-building programs to fortify the region’s energy governance. A major success in Uzbekistan was the enhancement of the legal and regulatory frameworks governing energy efficiency in buildings. By supporting the development of a market for energy service companies (ESCOs), the project has helped create a more attractive environment for private sector investment in green infrastructure. This foundational work is crucial as Uzbekistan continues to formalize investment mechanisms with international partners and launch large-scale projects.
Data-Driven Planning and Public Engagement Initiatives
The initiative’s legacy includes a powerful boost to data-driven policymaking through the creation of a regional energy modeling system, designed to improve forecasting and strategic planning. On a more granular level, SECCA conducted a thorough assessment of the technical potential for rooftop solar installations, providing invaluable data to guide future renewable energy deployments. Beyond policy and technology, the project prioritized public engagement. Through successful EU Sustainable Energy Days campaigns and educational outreach in schools and universities, SECCA worked to build grassroots awareness and support for the benefits of sustainable energy consumption.
EU’s Ongoing Commitment to Green Goals in the Region
While the SECCA project has formally ended, the roundtable emphasized that the European Union’s support for the region’s energy goals is far from over. Sven Ernedal, Programme Manager of EU4SustainableCentralAsia, presented a forward-looking roadmap of planned activities, assuring attendees from Uzbekistan’s Agency for Strategic Development and Reforms and various financial institutions of an ongoing partnership. This continued cooperation will build upon the solid groundwork laid by SECCA, aiming to further accelerate Central Asia’s journey toward a secure and sustainable energy future, supported by enhanced regional research collaboration through programs like the EU’s Horizon Europe.
Sources
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