Uzbekistan Embraces Renewable Energy with Major Investment Push
While some countries continue to focus on fossil fuels, Uzbekistan is making significant strides towards a green energy future. On December 5, 2025, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev inaugurated the construction of new energy capacities, marking a major milestone in the nation’s renewable energy journey.
The ambitious initiative involves a substantial $11 billion investment aimed at bolstering Uzbekistan’s national energy grid. This includes the development of 16 solar, wind, thermal, and hydro power projects valued at $3.3 billion, collectively generating 3.5 GW. According to EuroNews, these projects are spread across various regions, powered by both public and private investments.
Once operational, the new energy facilities are expected to contribute an additional billion kWh of electricity annually. By 2026, Uzbekistan aims to produce 23 billion kWh of “green” energy, meeting the country’s entire electricity demand. This transition is anticipated to cut methane consumption by almost 7 billion cubic meters and decrease harmful emissions by 11 million tons.
Apart from generation, the plan includes 10 energy storage systems with a total capacity of 1,245 megawatts, designed to supply 1.5 billion kWh during peak periods. The commissioning of 11 large substations and 420 kilometers of high-voltage networks is also underway to ensure system stability and reliability.
No US Involvement, China Plays a Key Role
The ceremony’s flags told a story of international partnerships, notably absent of the US. China, through its Belt and Road Initiative, is investing over $15 billion in Uzbekistan, with joint projects nearing a colossal $90 billion, as reported by the Caspian Press.
Uzbekistan and China are collaborating on more than 30 energy projects, totaling nearly 10 GW and valued at over $9 billion. Recently, 14 new projects worth nearly $2 billion were launched. President Mirziyoyev and China Datang’s President Zhou Yuanlong discussed expanding photovoltaic facilities and enhancing energy-storage capacity.
Additionally, the President engaged with Xu Liu from China Energy Engineering Corporation on renewable energy and high-voltage transmission development. Meng Qinglin from Sinoma Energy updated on local wind power and wind-turbine production, while Nan Yi of Universal Energy and Kang Hubiao of China General Technology explored further wind power and co-generation plant developments.
Moreover, plans for a new energy storage system in 2026 were supported, illustrating the growing Uzbekistan-China partnership in sustainable development.
Global Support for Uzbekistan’s Renewable Ambitions
Beyond China’s involvement, the event saw participation from energy ministers of the UAE, Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Kyrgyzstan, along with representatives from major financial institutions like the World Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
Key corporate entities like Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power, Türkiye’s Aksa Enerji, and Masdar from the UAE were present. ACWA Power’s Jon Zaidi highlighted, “Uzbekistan’s energy mix is becoming greener every year,” as they added over 2,500 megawatts to the grid this year alone.
France’s Voltalia signed an agreement for a 200 megawatt hybrid wind and storage project and is developing a 500 megawatt storage project, anticipated to start in 2026. Meanwhile, European firms are supporting conventional energy projects, with Électricité de France involved in new gas-fired power plants.
Hydropower remains a critical component, with the Kambarata-1 project set to begin next year in collaboration with Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. Small and micro hydropower installations are also increasing, with plans for 65 megawatts to be added next year.
Uzbekistan, in partnership with Azerbaijan, aims to establish a “green” electricity corridor to Europe, positioning itself as a strategic hub for data centers and businesses like BYD.
Contrasting Views on Renewable Energy
The US continues to debate the reliability of renewables, while countries like Uzbekistan advance with energy storage technologies and demand response strategies. Such initiatives optimize electricity use and reduce demand, underscoring a global shift towards sustainable energy solutions.
Original Story at cleantechnica.com