In recent years, cooperation between Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan has been strengthening across various sectors, including energy, writes Zuhriddin Umarov on Avesta.tj.
These countries are working on projects such as:
- Construction of hydroelectric power plants
- Development of power transmission networks
- Ensuring parallel operation of energy systems during summer irrigation periods
- Increasing mutual exports and imports in the energy sector
Hydropower Cooperation
Kambarata-1 Project
In collaboration with the energy ministries of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, the Kambarata-1 Hydropower Plant is being built on the Naryn River. This 1,860 MW plant is a key project for Kyrgyzstan’s water-energy balance and the entire Central Asian region.
Once operational, it will generate approximately 5.6 billion kWh of electricity annually, benefiting the whole region by:
- Enhancing regional energy security
- Accelerating the transition to a "green" economy
- Optimizing water resource management
Yavan Hydropower Plant
On June 2, 2022, Tajikistan’s President participated in the groundbreaking ceremony of the Yavan Hydropower Plant on the Zarafshan River. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon jointly launched the project, marking the first major bilateral energy cooperation initiative.
The plant plays a vital role in:
- Strengthening energy security
- Improving water management
- Supporting agricultural sustainability
The project adheres to modern engineering standards and involves leading international companies. It is backed by major financial institutions, including:
- International Finance Corporation (IFC)
-
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
- European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
The plant is expected to:
- Enhance scientific and industrial capacity
- Provide green energy to thousands of homes and enterprises
Rogun Hydropower Plant
Tajikistan has signed agreements with neighboring countries for the purchase of electricity from the under-construction Rogun Hydropower Plant.
Experts highlight that once operational, Rogun will:
- Supply excess electricity to regional markets
- Support parallel energy network operations between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan
- Improve water resource efficiency for agriculture and industry
To balance energy and water resources, Uzbekistan’s National Power Networks and Tajikistan have jointly implemented a 500 kV power transmission rehabilitation project (Guzar-Regar Line-507) in Uzbekistan.
A 64-km section of the Guzar-Regar transmission line has been reconstructed under an Intergovernmental Trade and Economic Cooperation Protocol between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.
Parallel Operation of Energy Systems
To stabilize energy supply and optimize water resources, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan’s power grids will operate in parallel mode, enabling:
- Balanced electricity transmission
- Stable energy supply during irrigation periods
- Facilitated maintenance of power equipment ahead of the autumn-winter season
These efforts contribute to regional energy security and economic integration, concludes Zuhriddin Umarov.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
March 30, 2025