Shavkat Mirziyoyev Discusses Implementation of Major Energy Projects and Improving National Energy Efficiency

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a meeting on the implementation of major energy projects, ensuring the stability of the energy system, and enhancing energy efficiency.

During the session, conducted in a critical review format, it was noted that the country’s total generating capacity has reached 25,800 megawatts, of which 31% comes from renewable sources, including solar, wind, and hydropower. In 2026, electricity production is planned at 90 billion kWh, a 40% increase compared to 2020. An additional 1 billion kWh is expected to be consumed due to the economic growth of various sectors.

Priority tasks were identified as uninterrupted energy supply to households and industry, modernization of networks, attraction of investments, and timely commissioning of large-scale facilities. The energy sector’s investment portfolio includes 133 projects with a total value of US$51.4 billion. Particular attention is given to 73 major projects worth US$43 billion, for which 6,770 MW of new capacity must be commissioned by the end of the year, including solar generation (2,800 MW), thermal (2,500 MW), wind (470 MW), hydro (68 MW), and energy storage systems (884 MW).

The meeting criticized the protracted process of approvals and land allocation, which delays the launch of new projects. Instructions were given to accelerate land provision and changes in land categories. The need for close cooperation between the Ministry of Energy and local authorities was emphasized, along with the expansion of participation by domestic manufacturers: in 2025, the local component amounted to US$737 million, and in 2026 it is expected to exceed US$1 billion.

Special attention is being paid to the localization of equipment. In 2026, projects are planned for the production of transformers, cables, couplings, towers, wind turbine blades, and energy storage systems.

Ensuring the timely delivery of electricity to consumers remains a key focus. This includes the construction and modernization of main and distribution networks, including the “Talimarjan–Sugdiyona,” “Syrdarya–Khalk,” and “Karakul–Nurabad” lines totaling 602 km, as well as the “Yangi Angren–Namangan” line and Namangan substation by 2030. In Tashkent, 75 km of high-voltage lines and five substations will be built, 69 km of networks and 18 substations modernized, and 638 km of low-voltage networks and 161 transformer points upgraded.

The meeting also addressed energy efficiency. In 2026, it is necessary to save 4.378 billion kWh of electricity and 2.84 billion m³ of natural gas, reduce energy consumption in major enterprises by at least 10% without decreasing production, and attract US$200 million to enhance efficiency in industry and social facilities. Construction of thermal and cogeneration centers is planned in the regions, including one center in each district of Tashkent and seven new centers based on the Yunusabad district experience.

Following the meeting, the President instructed to ensure the timely commissioning of strategic facilities, accelerate the development of main and distribution networks, and improve energy efficiency.