Uzbekistan solar energy expansion: New Solar Plant in Kashkadarya
Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Energy has announced plans to launch a 191.6 MW solar power plant in the Kashkadarya region by mid-2025. The project will include both the solar facility and a 220 kV substation, which will be connected to the national power grid.
This ambitious project is being developed through a joint venture between China’s GD Power and Shanghai Electric Power Construction. GD Power, a subsidiary of the state-owned China Energy Investment Corporation, and Shanghai Electric Power Construction, part of the Power Construction Corporation of China, have combined their expertise to bring this project to life.
The joint venture will own and operate the solar power plant for 25 years, selling the generated electricity to the Uzbekistan National Electric Networks JSC under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). This agreement aligns with Uzbekistan’s larger strategy to expand its renewable energy capacity while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Uzbekistan solar energy expansion drives Bukhara Solar Projects
In a separate yet related development, Uzbekistan has launched two new solar power plants in the Bukhara region, with a combined capacity of 500 MW. These projects have been developed by a consortium led by Masdar, a renewable energy company based in the United Arab Emirates, showcasing international collaboration in Uzbekistan’s renewable journey.
The Bukhara projects are anticipated to generate approximately 1.1 billion kWh of electricity annually, effectively meeting the growing energy demand in the region. These initiatives represent a substantial advancement in Uzbekistan’s renewable energy sector, which has been consistently expanding in recent years.
The Ministry of Energy reported that Uzbekistan’s total renewable energy capacity exceeded 2.5 GW by the end of 2024. This includes 1.9 GW of solar power and 600 MW of wind power, reflecting a significant increase from previous years as the country continues to invest in renewable energy infrastructure.
Uzbekistan solar energy expansion and Renewable Energy Goals
Uzbekistan has set formidable goals for its renewable energy sector. By 2030, the government aspires to achieve 12 GW of renewable energy capacity, including 9 GW of solar power and 3 GW of wind power. These targets are integral to the country’s broader strategy to diversify its energy mix and curb carbon emissions.
The government has been actively promoting renewable energy projects through various incentives and policy measures, offering long-term power purchase agreements, tax incentives, and other financial support for renewable energy developers.
The World Bank has also been a key supporter of Uzbekistan’s renewable energy initiatives. In 2020, the World Bank approved a $105 million loan to support the development of solar power projects in the country. This funding is expected to accelerate the deployment of solar energy and improve the overall efficiency of Uzbekistan’s power sector.
Economic Impact of Uzbekistan solar energy expansion
The expansion of renewable energy in Uzbekistan is projected to have a significant impact on the country’s economy. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, Uzbekistan can lower its energy costs and reduce vulnerability to fluctuations in global energy prices.
Furthermore, the development of renewable energy projects is expected to create new jobs in the construction, operation, and maintenance of solar and wind power plants, providing a boost to the local economy and improving the livelihoods of many Uzbek citizens.
The government’s focus on renewable energy is also aligned with its commitments under the Paris Agreement, which seeks to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions. By investing in renewable energy, Uzbekistan is contributing to global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.
The launch of the 191.6 MW solar power plant in Kashkadarya and the expansion of renewable energy projects in Uzbekistan signify substantial progress towards achieving the country’s energy goals. With continued investment and support, Uzbekistan is well on its way to becoming a regional leader in renewable energy.
