Azerbaijan is collaborating with China to advance its “green energy corridor” to Europe. This partnership was solidified on November 12 when Azerbaijani officials and representatives from Datang Overseas Investment Co. signed an agreement concerning the construction of a 100 Megawatt solar power plant south of Baku in Gobustan District. The project aims for completion in the second half of 2026.
Azerbaijan’s Green Energy Initiatives
The agreement encompasses not only solar energy but also opens discussions on offshore wind power and energy storage systems. Technical training programs are also part of the deal. Jinko Solar from China will supply the solar panels for this new facility. Additionally, Turkey’s EPRA Energy is managing critical analyses, including grid connections and power quality assessments.
Offshore Wind Project Exploration
Although details regarding the offshore wind project remain vague, it has the potential to generate up to 2 Gigawatts of power annually. The Azerbaijani Energy Ministry confirmed ongoing discussions about various technical and economic factors essential for the implementation of both the offshore wind venture and the green energy corridor.
- Focus on transportation and installation of wind turbines
- Local equipment production organization
- Submarine cables and energy transmission management
The green energy corridor is envisioned to connect the Caspian and Black Seas, linking Central Asia with Europe. Azerbaijan is also working alongside Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan on a trans-Caspian power line and is collaborating with Georgia, Romania, and Hungary for a power cable under the Black Sea.
European Union Energy Strategy
This initiative aims to provide an alternative power source for the European Union, reducing reliance on Russian natural gas. It also aligns with EU targets for lowering greenhouse gas emissions. In October, the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E) announced it would assess the feasibility of the Black Sea transmission line. On November 14, energy ministers from Georgia, Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria, and European energy firms convened in Tbilisi to discuss the corridor project.
Despite the positive momentum, the project’s success will depend on its commercial viability, given that Europe explores other energy options, including ambitious solar projects in the Sahara Desert.
Domestic Benefits and Export Potential
Azerbaijan’s aspirations aren’t purely altruistic. Enhancing its export capacity will generate revenue while simultaneously boosting domestic electricity supplies. The development of renewable energy resources could also reduce gas consumption for power generation, enabling Azerbaijan to meet its 2022 commitment to double gas exports to the EU to 20 billion cubic meters per year by 2027.
Brussels has expressed commitment to assisting Azerbaijan in unleashing its renewable energy potential. The developments in Azerbaijan’s green energy corridor signal a significant step toward diversifying energy sources for Europe while supporting the nation’s domestic power needs.
