From the Desert to the Steppes: Acwa’s Massive Solar Energy Projects to Power Uzbekistan
Added: (Fri Apr 14 2023)
Pressbox (Press Release) -
With the increasing demand for renewable energy, more countries are turning to solar power as a viable and sustainable source of electricity. One such country is Uzbekistan, which is set to receive a significant boost to its solar energy industry through Acwa Power. With an abundance of sunshine throughout the year, the country has the potential to become a major player in the solar energy industry.
Acwa Power is embarking on a bold upcoming project to build two massive PV plants in Uzbekistan, with a combined capacity of 1.4 GW. This groundbreaking effort will not only increase the country’s solar energy output but also help reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate the harmful effects of climate change. Acwa’s latest solar energy projects in Uzbekistan are not just a one-off venture but part of a comprehensive investment agreement worth $2.5 billion.
Next-Generation Power Storage Systems To Be Installed In Tashkent, Samarkand, And Bukhara
Uzbekistan is making significant strides in its bid to improve its energy sectors and solar electricity generation, with the construction of three power storage systems in Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara. The power plants will have a combined capacity of 1.2GW, with Tashkent’s storage facility expected to have a 400MW generating capacity. In contrast, the Samarkand facility will have a solar power plant with a generating capacity of 1GW and a storage capacity of 400MW. Additionally, Bukhara will have a storage facility with 400MW capacity, although there will be no power generation plant. Uzbekistan is maximizing its natural resources and attracting overseas investments to boost its renewable energy capacity and expand its solar electricity generation capability.
Solar Energy Projects To Power 1.1 Million Homes And Cut Carbon Emissions By 1.6 Million Tons
Solar energy projects are anticipated to power 1.1 million homes and offset approximately 1.6 million tons of carbon emissions annually, leading to significant environmental benefits. Furthermore, this transition towards renewable energy aligns with Uzbekistan’s broader goal of increasing its share of renewable energy in its electricity mix from 10% in 2020 to 25% by 2030. As a result, the country is poised to experience significant economic growth and stability, according to the International Energy Agency.
UAE Investments In Uzbekistan’s Power Sector
Uzbekistan’s energy sector is attracting significant foreign investments, with the United Arab Emirates stepping up its contribution. In a move to privatize two gas-fired power plants in Uzbekistan, Mubadala Investment Company and Abu Dhabi National Energy Company signed agreements in September to acquire a 40% stake in the plants. The PV plants have a combined capacity of 1.6 gigawatts. Meanwhile, Riyadh-based Acwa has also been actively investing in Uzbekistan’s energy industry, with agreements worth $12 billion signed in August to develop three new energy projects.