The government of Uzbekistan is making significant strides to expand its hydropower sector. The initiative aims to diversify electricity production and respond to the growing energy demands of the nation. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev recently outlined ambitious plans during a sector briefing.
Uzbekistan’s Hydropower Development Plans
Currently, Uzbekistan generates electricity mainly from natural gas and coal, with hydropower contributing approximately 10–12% of the total output. The country is blessed with over 150,000 kilometers of rivers and canals, identified as valuable resources for energy generation and economic growth.
Current Capacity and Future Goals
Installed hydropower capacity has risen from 1.6 GW in 2017 to a projected 2.4 GW by 2025. This growth coincides with an increase in the number of hydropower plants from 36 to 100 within the same timeframe. Furthermore, the nation is enhancing its domestic manufacturing capabilities, including establishing a facility for producing hydroelectric equipment.
3.6GW Project Pipeline Overview
At the briefing, officials presented an extensive pipeline comprising 73 projects scheduled from 2026 to 2032. This initiative is expected to require an investment of $5.8 billion, adding 3.6 GW of new hydropower capacity. Key highlights include:
- Thirteen hydropower plants and one wind project set to commence in 2026, yielding a capacity of 114 MW and generating 537 GWh annually.
- A separate 20 MW wind facility under construction in Bostanlyk district, backed by grant funding.
- The Upper Pskem hydropower plant, with a capacity of 160 MW, anticipated to provide electricity for over 160,000 households.
- A 15 MW hydropower plant planned in Sokh district of the Fergana region.
- Potential development of 42 small hydropower plants in the Upper Tupalang watercourses, aiming for a combined capacity of 541 MW and an annual generation of approximately 1.9 TWh.
Innovative Energy Storage Solutions
The Uzbek government is exploring three pumped storage hydropower plants with a total capacity of 1.4 GW. These facilities are in line with global trends in sustainable energy storage. Additionally, plans include nearly 3,000 small and micro hydropower installations collectively generating 164 MW.
The Role of Digitalization in Hydropower
Digital technology will play a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiency. The government plans to deploy monitoring systems for tracking water flows and reservoir conditions, with around 3,500 monitoring devices already in place to support dam safety.
Government Initiatives and Environmental Goals
President Mirziyoyev has emphasized the importance of timely project completion and increasing local participation in hydropower development. The government is also focusing on urban water management strategies, including riverbank rehabilitation and creating artificial lakes to improve the capital’s environmental conditions.
Uzbekistan is poised for a transformative journey in hydropower, ensuring a sustainable energy future for the nation.
