Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Public hearings were held at the Research Institute of Vegetable Growing, Melon Growing, and Potato Farming in the village of Kuksaroy, Tashkent District. The event was organized by the State Environmental Expertise Center under the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change.

The project under discussion involves the installation of solar panels in line with Presidential Decree No. 220 of 9 September 2022, “On Additional Measures for the Introduction of Energy-Saving Technologies and the Development of Small-Capacity Renewable Energy Sources,” as well as Resolution No. 541 of the Cabinet of Ministers dated September 7, 2020.

The plan calls for the construction of an Agri-PV agro-photovoltaic station with a capacity of 507.78 kWh on an area of 1.5 hectares. On one hectare alone, 819 solar panels are to be installed. The project is being implemented by Business Advanced Experts LLC with the support of the international company VOLTALIA. Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2025 and be completed by February 2026.

Agro-photovoltaic technology will make it possible to use land simultaneously for crop cultivation and electricity generation, ensuring more efficient water use, preservation of soil fertility, and higher yields. During the construction phase, 25 temporary jobs will be created.

Experts presented the results of the environmental impact assessment and proposed measures to minimize potential risks during construction, including equipment maintenance, separate waste collection and disposal, irrigation of the site to reduce dust, and limiting the operation of heavy machinery to daytime hours.

It was further emphasized that the use of solar technologies will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower water consumption, and create a favorable microclimate for crops by protecting them from heat and precipitation.

Participants of the hearings noted that the project complies with legislative requirements, expressed their support for its implementation, and offered suggestions for optimizing further work.