Uzbekistan Plans to Expand “Green” Energy to 30% of Power Generation in 2026

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — In 2026, Uzbekistan plans to commission 2 GW of renewable energy capacity, which will increase the share of green energy in the country’s electricity generation to 30%.

These measures are outlined in a draft Presidential Decree as part of the State Program for Implementing Reforms under the Priority Directions of the “Year of Mahalla Development and Improving Public Wellbeing” and the “Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy.

The program envisions the integration of new generation capacity into the national grid while ensuring system stability. Foreign investment and credit financing totaling US$516.1 million are expected to support these initiatives, alongside the construction of 164.4 km of 220–500 kV overhead power lines and an increase in substation capacity to 650 MVA.

The commissioning of solar photovoltaic plants totaling 1,515 MW and wind farms totaling 450 MW, located in the Republic of Karakalpakstan and the Samarkand region, will significantly boost renewable power generation.

To enhance the reliability of electricity supply, energy storage systems with a total capacity of 775 MW will be built, alongside the modernization of 6,300 km of distribution networks and 1,700 transformer substations, including preparation of project documentation and construction and installation works.

In addition, 1.7 GW of thermal generation will be commissioned in 2026: the “Sirdarya 2” project in the Sirdarya region will contribute 1,000 MW, the third combined-cycle unit at the Navoi TPP will provide 600 MW, and seven cogeneration centers of 100 MW each are planned for Tashkent’s districts to supply heat.

Particular attention is being given to small hydropower development. 1,799 small and micro hydropower plants with a total capacity of 98.1 MW will be commissioned after auctions, site preparation, and construction oversight. Among them are the Beshqorghor cascade on the Great Andijan Canal (5 MW), ZhFK-3 HPP on the Southern Ferghana Canal (6.9 MW), and the Norin cascade in Namangan region (38 MW).

To improve the investment appeal of energy companies, Uzbekistan is implementing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. Reports in 2024 will be prepared according to SASB/GRI standards, followed in 2025 by ISSB (IFRS S1/S2) standards, with independent audits and applications for ESG ratings from international agencies, including Sustainable Fitch.

Additionally, 97 MW of small solar photovoltaic plants will be built in 251 districts across the country, supported by direct investment and green grants. All new facilities will be connected to the unified energy system, promoting sustainable development of the national energy sector and accelerating Uzbekistan’s transition to a low-carbon economy.