The new Uzbekistan solar power plant is a collaborative project between Uzbekistan and Germany. It is spearheading the green revolution in the country. As it is known, this initiative is part of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s ambitious plans to provide an economical supply of renewable energy. The commissioning of major test projects such as a mega-solar scheme in the Fergana Valley will pave the way for a significant shift in the country's energy landscape.

Major solar projects in the Fergana region

Startups in the Fergana region was launched at a recent event presided over by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. One of the most important is a 500 MW solar photovoltaic plant in the Besharyk district. It will be built in collaboration with the German company Hyper Partners for $350 million. This project includes the first phase of a 200 MW solar power plant set to be online this year. The entire solar power project will be operational by 2025.

The Fergana solar power plant will produce 1.6 billion kWh of electric power per year. It will save up to 466 million cubic meters of natural gas annually. This project is a crucial step toward Uzbekistan's renewable energy development and achieving its carbon-neutral commitments. Another notable project in the Fergana Valley is the third stage of modernizing the Kokand superphosphate plant, launched by Indorama. By the end of 2028 the plant will significantly increase its production capacity and contribute to the region's economic growth.

Renewable Energy in Uzbekistan

Rapid diversification is essential to address the pressing need for renewable energy in Uzbekistan. The 500 MW solar power plant will be the first among many renewable energy projects in the country. Enhanced energy storage and small hydropower initiatives will create a reliable and resilient energy system. Complementing the solar projects Uzbekistan is also modernizing its energy infrastructure.

The Almaty-based Gezhouba Group is building a $144 million, 150 MW energy storage system in Uzbekistan. This massive battery is scheduled to switch on during peak demand and is expected to go live at the end of the year. It will help secure the energy supply by balancing the grid. Moreover, President Mirziyoyev has opened two small hydropower plants to supply energy to remote areas. The 2.2 MW Shahimardan plant and the 430 kW Yukori Vodil plant will service local populations, supporting more equitable access to energy across the region.

The Role of International Collaboration

International collaboration is indispensable to these projects. The 500 MW solar power plant co-invested by Uzbekistan and Hyper Partners and energy storage through an investment by China’s Gezhouba Group are prime examples. These collaborations bring financial resources and technological expertise and innovation. Uzbekistan Solar Power is a key part of the ecological modernization process in Uzbekistan.

The company’s major projects in the Fergana area, including a 500 MW solar plant, signal a decisive turn to renewables. They confirm the beginning of an all-encompassing process of ecological modernization in Uzbekistan. By embracing the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and strategically collaborating internationally, Uzbekistan is poised to achieve its renewable energy goals. This paves the way for a fossil fuel-free future.