Uzbek Companies to Build Power Networks in Afghanistan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbek companies will build electricity networks and substations in Afghanistan under a project that will be carried out under special supervision by the Uzbek side, with weekly reporting. Energy Minister Sherzod Khojayev announced this at a meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on fuel and energy sector issues.

The project is valued at US$222 million and will be fully financed by the Afghan side. Of this amount, US$140 million will account for exports of Uzbek products, including materials and equipment required for construction.

Khojayev said in an interview with O'zbekiston 24 television that electricity supplies to Afghanistan from Uzbekistan's surplus capacity would be made only after domestic demand in Uzbekistan had been fully met. Priority would be given to ensuring energy supplies for domestic consumers.

The project was one of three areas presented by the Ministry of Energy at the meeting.

In addition to the Afghan project, the ministry reported on plans to expand nationwide the experience of developing energy passports for mahallas, which was piloted in Yangiyul district, as well as the transfer of regional electricity distribution networks to Turkish company Aksa Elektrik for management, the first such case in the country's history.