Power Grid

Uzbekistan has officially commenced operations at the largest wind farm in Central Asia, marking a significant milestone in the country's renewable energy sector. The Zarafshan Wind Power Plant, developed by the UAE's Masdar, is a key component of the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and the UAE.

The plant's inauguration was attended by an official UAE delegation, alongside the President of Uzbekistan, showcasing the close cooperation between the two nations in advancing sustainable energy initiatives.

The Zarafshan Wind Power Plant, located in the Navoi region, is the largest renewable energy project in Central Asia, with a capacity of 500 MW. It will provide electricity to over 500,000 homes and is expected to reduce carbon emissions by more than one million tons annually.

The plant is a vital step toward Uzbekistan's ambitious goal of sourcing 25% of its electricity from renewable energy by 2030, which includes 7 GW of solar power and 5 GW of wind energy.

The project, which Masdar began developing in 2020, represents the first large-scale wind energy venture in Uzbekistan. In November 2023, the plant was partially commissioned, with the first wind turbine generating approximately 25 MW of renewable energy. The full commercial operation of the plant is expected by December 13, 2024.

This development is part of Masdar's broader efforts in Uzbekistan, including the operation of a 100 MW solar power plant in the Navoi region, and a series of upcoming solar projects, totaling 900 MW.

During the UAE delegation's visit, several key agreements were signed, underscoring the growing energy cooperation between the two countries. These included a memorandum of understanding for the TPP1 Saffron project, a 900 MW gas-fired power plant, and a joint development agreement for the Mubarak project in the Qashqadryo region.

Discussions also took place between senior UAE officials and Uzbekistan’s Energy Minister, focusing on enhancing cooperation in oil and gas, renewable energy, infrastructure, and other sectors vital to sustainable development.