Masdar, a UAE-based renewable energy developer, has achieved a significant milestone in Uzbekistan by connecting the first units of its Samarkand and Jizzakh solar power plants to the local grid, as reported by Renewables Now. These two plants, with a combined capacity of 511 MW, mark a substantial advancement in Uzbekistan’s renewable energy goals.
China’s Trina Solar Co. is responsible for providing its Vanguard 1P trackers for the project. The Samarkand and Jizzakh solar power plants, developed and constructed by Masdar and contracted by a subsidiary of Dongfang Electric Corporation, are poised to make a considerable contribution to Uzbekistan’s energy landscape.
Upon full commissioning, these solar sites are expected to generate approximately 1.12 TWh of clean power annually, enough to supply around 240,000 homes, thus significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels and curbing carbon emissions.
Trina Solar’s involvement underscores its expanding presence in Uzbekistan’s renewable energy sector, following its participation in the Navoi solar power plant project in 2021.
Masdar, known as one of the world’s fastest-growing renewable energy companies and a leader in green hydrogen initiatives, has played a pivotal role in positioning the UAE at the forefront of the global energy transition. With projects spanning over 40 countries across six continents and investments exceeding $30bn, Masdar continues to drive forward clean energy solutions worldwide.
Additionally, an agreement was also signed recently, between Uzbekhydroenergo, Uzbekistan’s hydroelectric power producer, and Masdar. This agreement aims to assess the feasibility of various domestic hydroelectric power storage projects, anticipated to enhance Uzbekistan’s ambitious renewable energy targets by addressing supply challenges.
In May 2023, Masdar and Uzbekistan signed an agreement to develop 2 GW of renewable energy projects, along with 1,150 MWh of battery energy storage, reinforcing the commitment to sustainable energy development in the region. The expanded battery storage component will be deployed across several solar projects, including Nur Navoi, Sherabad, Samarkand, and Jizzakh, as well as at Zarafshan.
Masdar has contributed to Uzbekistan since 2019, marked by the successful development of the nation’s first independently financed solar project, the 100 MW Nur Navoi Solar Project, operational since 2021. Subsequent projects, such as the Bukhara Solar PV project and the Guzar Solar PV project, further underscore Masdar’s dedication to advancing renewable energy infrastructure in Uzbekistan.
