By Abbas Nazil
Uzbekistan has taken a significant step toward achieving its renewable energy ambitions with the inauguration of the 500 MW Zarafshan wind farm, the largest operational wind energy project in Central Asia.
The facility, developed by Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar, marks a milestone in Uzbekistan’s clean energy journey, reflecting its commitment to transitioning to low-carbon energy systems.
The Zarafshan wind farm was officially inaugurated Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of Uzbekistan, in the presence of prominent officials, including Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of Masdar, and Suhail Mohamed Faraj Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure.
The event was also attended by senior representatives from both governments, highlighting the deep partnership between Uzbekistan and the UAE in driving renewable energy development in the region.
Masdar, one of the world’s leading clean energy companies, has committed to investing $2 billion in renewable energy projects across Uzbekistan.
This includes over 2 GW of clean energy capacity, with an additional pipeline of 4 GW of projects in the early stages of development.
These investments are part of Uzbekistan’s broader ambition to achieve 20 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, supporting its national strategy to diversify its energy mix and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Dr. Sultan Al Jaber underscored the significance of this collaboration, emphasizing the UAE’s dedication to fostering sustainable growth through international partnerships.
“The UAE and Uzbekistan’s enduring relationship is critical to a shared commitment to low-carbon socioeconomic progress and clean energy capacity growth.
“Together, we are contributing to the global goal of tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030, as outlined in the historic UAE Consensus,” he stated.
The Zarafshan wind farm represents a key achievement in Uzbekistan’s renewable energy strategy, setting a benchmark for similar projects in the region.
The facility is expected to power hundreds of thousands of homes with clean, emissions-free energy while significantly reducing Uzbekistan’s reliance on fossil fuels.
This shift is crucial for a country that has historically depended on traditional energy sources to fuel its economic growth.
Speaking at the inauguration, Suhail Mohamed Faraj Al Mazrouei highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable development goals.
“The UAE and Uzbekistan share a common vision for advancing clean energy and sustainable development.
The Zarafshan wind farm stands as a testament to this shared commitment and demonstrates Uzbekistan’s leadership in climate action,” he said.
Masdar’s CEO, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, praised Uzbekistan for its rapid progress in renewable energy adoption.
“Uzbekistan has positioned itself as a clean energy hub for Central Asia, building on its legacy as a vital artery on the ancient Silk Road.
The Zarafshan wind farm is a clear demonstration of Masdar’s commitment to helping Uzbekistan achieve its clean energy goals.
Projects like these not only power homes and businesses but also support sustainable economic growth while cutting emissions,” he said.
In addition to Zarafshan, Masdar and Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Energy have signed an agreement to develop a 1 GW wind farm in the Mingbulak region.
Announced during COP29, this project will deliver clean energy to approximately 300,000 homes upon completion, creating 1,000 jobs during construction and 60 permanent positions during its operational phase.
This agreement marks the first phase of a broader plan to establish three wind farms across Uzbekistan, further solidifying the country’s position as a leader in clean energy development in Central Asia.
Since its establishment in 2006, Masdar has played a pivotal role in advancing renewable energy projects worldwide.
The company has partnered in projects across over 40 countries, with a mandate to expand its renewable energy portfolio to 100 GW by 2030.
It also aims to become a global leader in green hydrogen production, targeting the production of 1 million tons annually within the next decade.
This ambitious agenda aligns with Uzbekistan’s clean energy vision, which aims to attract foreign investment while transitioning to a more sustainable energy system.
The Zarafshan wind farm’s inauguration highlights Uzbekistan’s ability to attract high-profile partnerships and investments, making it a key player in the global energy transition.
With its ambitious targets and supportive policy framework, Uzbekistan has demonstrated its capacity to lead by example in the renewable energy sector.
The country’s renewable energy projects not only address its domestic energy needs but also position it as a model for other nations in Central Asia seeking to embrace sustainable development.
Uzbekistan’s renewable energy strategy includes plans to integrate solar, wind, and energy storage technologies to create a robust, diversified energy system.
Masdar is a key partner in this vision, helping Uzbekistan overcome traditional energy challenges and transition to a low-carbon future.
The 500 MW Zarafshan wind farm is just the beginning of a broader effort to transform Uzbekistan’s energy landscape, delivering tangible benefits for its citizens and the environment.
By focusing on renewable energy projects like Zarafshan, Uzbekistan is poised to achieve significant socioeconomic and environmental gains.
These projects contribute to job creation, enhanced energy security, and reduced emissions while attracting international investments that drive economic growth.
As a regional leader in clean energy, Uzbekistan continues to demonstrate the power of collaboration in tackling global challenges like climate change.
With its strategic partnerships and ambitious targets, Uzbekistan is well on its way to becoming a renewable energy powerhouse.
The Zarafshan wind farm serves as a powerful symbol of the nation’s commitment to sustainability, offering a blueprint for other countries seeking to harness the benefits of clean energy for future generations. END
Source: Energy Global