Sarimay Uzbekistan solar plant Begins Powering the Grid
Uzbekistan’s renewable energy landscape has taken a significant leap forward as the Sarimay solar photovoltaic (PV) plant has officially started generating electricity. The facility, located in the Khorezm region, has successfully delivered its first megawatt-hours (MWh) to the national grid, marking a crucial milestone in the country’s transition towards clean energy.
Developed by the international renewable energy company Voltalia, this 126-megawatt project is a cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s strategy to expand its green energy capacity.
Project Overview of the Uzbekistan solar plant
The Sarimay Solar Plant is an expansive installation that underscores the rapid advancements in utility-scale solar projects. Awarded through a public tender in late 2022, the project is secured by a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA). Construction, which began in May 2024, is now nearing completion.
Spanning 180 hectares, the facility is equipped with over 180,000 bifacial solar panels. These panels are a product of a sophisticated solar panel manufacturing process, which involves assembling various high-quality solar panel raw materials to maximize energy capture from both sides of the panel. The plant also integrates over 350 inverters and a three-kilometer transmission line to efficiently deliver power to the grid.
Capacity and Environmental Impact of the Uzbekistan solar plant
Once fully operational, the Sarimay plant is projected to generate approximately 252 gigawatt-hours of clean electricity annually. This output is sufficient to power the equivalent of 60,000 local residents.
Beyond providing clean energy, the project delivers substantial environmental benefits. It is expected to prevent more than 140,000 tons of COâ‚‚ emissions each year. Furthering its commitment to sustainability, the project also includes extensive environmental and social initiatives, such as the planting of 2.65 million trees.
Financing and Development of the Uzbekistan solar plant
The project’s development was made possible through financing from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), with additional support from the European Fund for Sustainable Development Plus. Voltalia has managed the project’s entire lifecycle, from development and engineering to procurement and construction supervision. The company will also oversee the plant’s operations and maintenance, ensuring its long-term efficiency and contribution to the grid. The financial structuring is a key element, as the overall solar panel manufacturing plant cost breakdown for such large-scale energy infrastructure is complex.
This project is a prime example of the growing trend in Uzbekistan Solar Panel Manufacturing and energy development, supporting the nation’s ambitious 2030 energy transition goals. Understanding the basics of solar panel manufacturing and the specialized solar panel manufacturing machines required highlights the technological foundation supporting this growth.
For homeowners and tenants in Germany, large-scale international projects like Sarimay are more relevant than they might seem. The global expansion of solar energy drives innovation and creates economies of scale, which can lead to more affordable and advanced solar technologies becoming available on the German market. This interconnectedness in the renewable energy sector benefits consumers worldwide.
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