Measures for the development of the energy sector discussed

Over the past eight years, electricity production has increased by 38 percent, reaching 81.5 billion kilowatt-hours. Thanks to expanded opportunities for the private sector, new generation capacities totaling 11.2 gigawatts have been created. As a result, the private sector’s share in electricity generation has reached 24 percent, while the share of green energy now stands at 16 percent.

During this period, household incomes grew 1.6 times, leading to an increase in electricity consumption by 21 billion kilowatt-hours due to adoption of new household appliances. This figure is twice as high as in 2016.

By 2030, the population of Uzbekistan is expected to reach 41 million, while the economy is projected to grow 1.5 times. Accordingly, plans include creating $45 billion in added value in the industrial sector, tripling the volume of services, and launching large data centers.

To achieve these goals, a stable energy supply is essential. According to projections, Uzbekistan will require 117 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity by 2030, and by 2035, this demand will rise to 135 billion kilowatt-hours – 1.7 times more than the current consumption.

At the meeting, the Minister of Energy presented a long-term program aimed at achieving these targets.

As noted, new power plants and energy storage facilities will be constructed. To integrate them into the system, 7,000 kilometers of main power grids will be built, along with the implementation of digital management systems. This will help balance energy distribution across regions. If one region experiences an energy deficit, another area will supply additional capacity. To carry out these projects over the next five years, $4 billion in investments will be required for the National Electric Grid of Uzbekistan.

One of the most critical tasks is reducing the cost of electricity production. A key factor in achieving this is the use of alternative energy sources.

The cost of generating one kilowatt-hour at thermal power plants is 5-6 cents, whereas at solar and wind farms, it averages 3 cents. International experts also highlight Uzbekistan’s significant potential for green energy development.

Based on this, by 2030, the share of green energy in total electricity generation is expected to exceed 50 percent. Specifically, plans include commissioning 3,000 micro-hydropower plants with a total capacity of 164 megawatts and small solar and wind power stations with a combined capacity of 750 megawatts.

Earlier, the Head of state emphasized that the time has come to transition to a resource-efficient economic model.

In particular, an additional 27 percent of GDP can be generated by improving energy efficiency in industry. Currently, energy consumption at some local chemical and metallurgical enterprises is twice as high as the global average, while it is 1.2 times higher in cement production.

Therefore, the goal has been set to reduce energy consumption by 10-15 percent in each sector and lower electricity losses from the current 14 percent to 8-9 percent by 2030.

Work has already begun with foreign investors on projects totaling 24 gigawatts, valued at $26 billion. These projects will require large equipment and construction materials, presenting significant opportunities for local enterprises. The importance of developing localization and industrial cooperation within these projects was emphasized.

Key tasks were identified to ensure a stable and uninterrupted electricity supply for consumers and enhance workforce training for the energy sector.

Officials have been instructed to develop a comprehensive energy sector development program until 2035, incorporating the discussed priorities