Uzbekistan is making significant strides towards a renewable energy future, setting a remarkable example amid contrasting fossil fuel policies in the U.S. On December 5, 2025, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev inaugurated the construction of new energy projects aimed at enhancing the country’s national energy grid.
Uzbekistan’s $11 Billion Renewable Energy Investment
The new infrastructure projects involve a substantial $11 billion investment strategy. This encompasses 16 solar, wind, thermal, and hydro power facilities, totaling a capacity of 3.5 gigawatts (GW). The investment also includes energy generation and storage systems designed to boost the nation’s energy production.
- Expected annual addition of 1 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity.
- Projected green energy output to reach 23 billion kWh by 2026.
- Reduction of 7 billion cubic meters of methane consumption.
- Prevention of 11 million tons of harmful emissions.
Strategic Energy Storage and Infrastructure Development
Among the projects, ten energy storage systems with a total capacity of 1,245 megawatts will provide 1.5 billion kWh during peak loads. Additionally, new substations and 420 kilometers of high-voltage networks will ensure stability and reliability of the energy supply.
Collaboration with China and Other Nations
China is significantly involved in Uzbekistan’s energy transition, offering over $15 billion in direct investments. The collaboration is part of the Belt and Road Initiative, aiming to enhance strategic energy projects.
- Over 30 energy projects with a combined capacity near 10 GW.
- 14 new projects launched, valued at nearly $2 billion.
During discussions, President Mirziyoyev emphasized the importance of technological development in renewable energy, ranging from photovoltaic plants to waste treatment solutions.
International Support for Renewable Initiatives
The energy transition has garnered international attention, with officials from the UAE, Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Kyrgyzstan attending recent conferences. Key stakeholders include:
- ACWA Power (Saudi Arabia)
- Masdar (UAE)
- Siemens Energy (Germany)
Relations with France and Japan are also notable, with major projects underway in gas-fired energy and hydroelectric power. Notably, the Kambarata-1 hydropower project, in cooperation with Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, is set to begin in 2024.
Contrast with U.S. Energy Policies
The contrast between Uzbekistan’s renewable energy initiatives and U.S. fossil fuel policies is stark. While the U.S. is criticized for downplaying renewable energy reliability, Uzbekistan is demonstrating how nations can effectively pivot towards sustainable solutions. Their commitment underlines the potential for developing nations to lead in green energy implementation and technology innovations.
As Uzbekistan positions itself to be a regional energy hub, it invites international investment and collaboration, showcasing a path forward that diverges from the current U.S. strategies and exemplifying a global shift towards renewable energy frameworks.
