Presentation Highlights Prospective Hydropower Capacity in Surkhandarya Region

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 26 February, during the visit of President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Surkhandarya region, a presentation was held detailing the current state and future prospects of the region’s hydropower potential.

During the event, the President received a comprehensive briefing on ongoing and planned hydropower projects. Special attention was given to expanding the region’s energy capacity, the efficient use of renewable energy sources, and ensuring a stable and reliable electricity supply for both residents and local industries.

It was noted that in 2017, the region had only one hydroelectric power plant with a capacity of 30 MW. Following the President’s initiative, the volume of the Topolang Reservoir was increased from 100 million to 500 million cubic meters, creating additional opportunities for introducing new capacity on the Topolang River.

Over the past nine years, the total capacity of the region’s hydropower facilities has increased ninefold to 273.4 MW, and the number of hydroelectric stations has grown to 13. As a result, annual electricity generation now reaches approximately 800 million kWh.

To ensure the rational use of the hydropower potential of the upper Topolang, information was presented on the Kishtut Hydropower Cascade project, which will include three hydroelectric stations with a total capacity of 80 MW. Construction work on the project has already begun.

By the President’s directive, the Kishtut Hydropower Cascade will be implemented as a national project. Specific tasks have also been set to maximize the use of the upper Topolang’s water resources, further expand the region’s hydropower capacity, and increase electricity production.

The implementation of this project is of strategic importance for strengthening Surkhandarya’s energy independence, increasing the share of renewable sources in the regional energy mix, and ensuring sustainable electricity supply for both residents and the economy.