Moscow, (TDI): Uzbekistan is set to increase the share of renewable energy sources in its total energy consumption to 40% by 2030 as part of its long-term growth strategy, announced the country’s Energy Minister, Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov, at the “Russian Energy Week” forum in Moscow.
Addressing the forum, Mirzamakhmudov said that Uzbekistan’s energy consumption is rising rapidly due to an annual economic growth rate of 6% and an expanding population.
Consequently, electricity demand is expected to increase by 7-8% per year, stabilizing at 7.5% by 2030. To address this surge, the government plans to add up to 20 gigawatts (GW) of solar and wind power capacity, which will form the backbone of its renewable energy strategy.
“Renewable energy, including solar and wind power plants, will serve as the foundation for meeting Uzbekistan’s growing electricity needs,” stated Mirzamakhmudov.
Currently, renewables contribute only 10% to Uzbekistan’s energy mix.
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However, the Minister noted that by the end of 2024, this share is projected to increase to 15%.
In the years to come, the country plans to commission between 2.5 to 3.5 GW of new capacity annually. The focus will also be on expanding thermal and hydroelectric power projects, which are expected to reach 18.5 GW by the end of the decade.
Mirzamakhmudov also highlighted the significance of energy storage systems for stabilizing the power supply.
Uzbekistan aims to install 300 megawatts (MW) of storage capacity this year, scaling up to 4.2 GW by 2030, primarily through lithium-ion batteries.
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In addition, hydro-battery storage projects are in the pipeline to bolster capacity further.
The ambitious energy transition is being driven by foreign direct investment, reflecting strong international interest in Uzbekistan’s energy sector.
“All these projects are financed by foreign investors, showcasing their confidence in Uzbekistan’s future as a regional energy hub,” Mirzamakhmudov said.
The Russian Energy Week 2024 forum, held from September 26 to 28, brought together more than 70 speakers from various countries, including Russia, BRICS member states, and African nations.
Discussions at the forum covered topics such as sustainable energy development, the evolving role of hydrocarbons, and technological independence in the energy sector. A key highlight was the meeting of BRICS energy ministers, which emphasized enhancing cooperation in a multipolar world.
Earlier this week, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) held its annual Board of Directors meeting in Samarkand, where Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed a comprehensive green energy development program for Central Asia.
His proposal aligns with Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to position itself as a leader in renewable energy in the region.
