Households in Uzbekistan Rapidly Adopt Energy-Saving Technologies

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A study by the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR) has revealed a large-scale shift among Uzbek households toward the use of energy-saving and energy-efficient technologies. The widespread adoption of these solutions has enabled nearly 90% of households to implement at least one measure to reduce energy consumption.

One of the key trends is the extensive introduction of energy-efficient solutions at the household level. The most common practice has been the installation of LED lighting, with 87% of households transitioning to this technology. In regions such as the Republic of Karakalpakstan, Khorezm, Navoi, and Tashkent provinces, the share of households using LED lighting exceeds 90%.

Significant uptake has also been observed in the modernization of windows and doors. Approximately 44% of households have improved insulation by installing plastic frames, with the highest activity recorded in Kashkadarya (84%), Bukhara (69%), and Khorezm (54%).

In addition, 31% of households have acquired energy-efficient appliances. The largest shares of adoption are found in Jizzakh (60%), Navoi (59%), and the Republic of Karakalpakstan (54%).

The study also highlights growing interest among the population in renewable energy sources. More than half of the households that have installed solar panels reported satisfaction with the results and expressed interest in expanding their generation capacity. CERR estimates that the potential demand for solar panels among households stands at approximately 1.9 million, creating prospects for a domestic market exceeding US$2.3 billion.

At the same time, a significant portion of energy consumption still comes from less efficient heating sources, including outdated gas boilers and solid-fuel stoves, indicating further potential for modernization.

Potential for Increasing Building Energy Efficiency

Experts estimate that insulating exterior walls of multi-story residential buildings, modernizing heating systems, and replacing windows and doors could save over US$60 million annually in energy resources.

According to World Bank data, comparable potential exists in social institutions, healthcare facilities, preschools, and public schools. Targeted investments in modernizing these facilities could reduce energy consumption by 20–50%, equivalent to cutting consumption by up to 7.1 billion kWh per year.

Thus, the energy efficiency measures being implemented in Uzbekistan represent a significant factor in sustainable economic growth, easing the burden on the energy system, and improving the quality of life for the population.