Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Five small-capacity hydroelectric power plants have begun operation in Karakalpakstan, the press service of Uzbekhydroenergo reported.

Three of these plants are located in the Nukus district, while two are in the Khodzheyli district. The combined capacity of the new facilities is 145 kW, enabling an annual electricity generation of up to 840,000 kWh to meet the needs of the local population.

A micro-hydropower plant installed in the Akterek mahalla on the Buzatov canal has a capacity of 15 kW and can produce 85,000 kWh per year. Two other plants with a total capacity of 30 kW are located on the Turtkul canal in the village of Kerder, where an annual output of up to 175,000 kWh is projected.

The other two small hydroelectric plants operate in the village of Samankul in the Khodzheyli district, utilizing water from the Suyenli canal. Each has a capacity of 50 kW and is designed for an annual production of approximately 580,000 kWh of electricity.

Uzbekhydroenergo emphasized that these plants use locally manufactured units and equipment produced by the UzHydroPower plant. The company described the new facilities as a model for entrepreneurs interested in implementing public-private partnership projects.

Additionally, in recent months, the Tashkent regional hokimiyat approved the construction of micro and small hydropower plants at 248 sites along rivers and canals in the region. Of these, 83 sites were allocated for energy facilities in May, and another 66 in June.