Powering Communities: Uzbekistan solar stations initiative for 1,000 Locations
Uzbekistan is embarking on an ambitious and forward-thinking renewable energy initiative, targeting the very heart of its communities. The government has announced a plan to install solar power stations in approximately 1,000 mahallas—unique, neighborhood-based community units—as part of a sweeping rural development and energy independence strategy.
This program is specifically designed to uplift areas facing difficult socio-economic conditions by creating new income sources and ensuring a more reliable power supply. It represents a significant step in decentralizing energy production and empowering local populations.
Power to the People: The Mahalla Uzbekistan solar stations Program
The core of the initiative involves introducing solar plants with a capacity of 300–500 kilowatts in each targeted mahalla. In a move designed to foster local ownership and economic benefit, these stations will be leased to the communities for a seven-year period on preferential and affordable terms.
The goals of this community-focused solar rollout are multi-faceted:
* Reduce Electricity Shortages: Provide a stable and clean source of energy, particularly in underserved regions.
* Support Local Economies: Power small businesses and agricultural operations, improving productivity and opportunities.
* Stimulate Employment: Create jobs related to the installation, operation, and maintenance of the new solar infrastructure.
* Improve Infrastructure: Lay the groundwork for modern, resilient community services.
This project is a key pillar of a wider poverty-reduction strategy that covers 37 districts and over 900 mahallas. The financial commitment is substantial, requiring approximately $230 million. This will be sourced from a combination of the Fund for Reconstruction and Development, which is providing $110 million, and an additional $120 million from international financial institutions.
Uzbekistan solar stations: A Component of a Larger National Vision
While the mahalla program is impressive in its local focus, it is just one part of Uzbekistan’s much larger national ambition to become a leader in clean energy. The country is concurrently pursuing massive, utility-scale solar projects that are attracting significant international investment and expertise.
A flagship project, financed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), is the construction of Central Asia’s largest solar power plant. This monumental facility will have a capacity of 1 gigawatt, demonstrating the scale of Uzbekistan’s green transition.
The momentum is further evidenced by major supply chain agreements. For instance, a deal has been secured to supply 1.2 GW of high-efficiency solar modules for projects across the country, marking a key milestone in Uzbekistan’s clean energy development strategy.
The government’s commitment also extends to the individual household level. In a parallel effort, Uzbekistan has allocated UZS 200bn ($16 million) for the energy-efficient renovation of homes for vulnerable families. This includes insulating houses and installing energy-efficient windows, doors, and solar equipment, ensuring that the benefits of the green transition are felt across all segments of society.
By combining large-scale infrastructure projects with grassroots community initiatives and individual household support, Uzbekistan is building a comprehensive and resilient energy future powered by the sun.
