Will Uzbekistan fund a 250-megawatt solar photovoltaic plant?

TASHKENT, May 21, 2024 — The World Bank Group, Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC (Masdar), and the Government of Uzbekistan have signed a financial package to fund a 250-megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic plant with a 63-MW battery energy storage system (BESS).

What is the electricity price in Uzbekistan?

The residential electricity price in Uzbekistan is UZS 295.000 per kWh or USD 0.023. The electricity price for businesses is UZS 900.000 kWh or USD 0.071. These retail prices were collected in March 2024 and include the cost of power, distribution and transmission, and all taxes and fees. Compare Uzbekistan with 150 other countries.

What is the energy sector like in Uzbekistan?

In Uzbekistan, the energy sector is concentrated in the hands of two monopolies, Uzbekenergo and Uzbekneftegaz, with mineral resources and rare-earth minerals concentrated at metallurgy plants, which the government intends to upgrade through a number of sponsored programmes, and with the active assistance of foreign contractors and suppliers.

Who will sell electricity to in Uzbekistan?

The project company is committed to selling electricity to the state-owned National Electric Grid of Uzbekistan JSC under a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement for the project, including a 10-year operating term for the BESS component, signed by these two entities.

How will Uzbekistan improve its energy security?

“This project will enhance Uzbekistan’s energy security through the use of innovative solutions and technologies,” noted Marco Mantovanelli, World Bank Country Manager for Uzbekistan.

How does the World Bank help Uzbekistan?

These efforts support the country's clean energy transition and decarbonization, as well as its economic growth. In this context, the World Bank Group is helping Uzbekistan develop 2,000 MW of solar and 500 MW of wind energy by attracting private sector investments.