Uzbekistan ramps up energy efficiency with major gas, electricity savings plan

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV) — Uzbekistan has adopted an ambitious energy efficiency plan to save 1.1 billion cubic meters of natural gas and 2.6 billion kilowatt hours of electricity in 2025. 

The initiative is part of broader efforts to modernize outdated infrastructure, reduce energy waste, and boost expand renewable energy resources.

During a meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, officials outlined measures to optimize energy use, particularly in the industrial sector, where aging equipment and inefficient systems have led to high losses. To address this, Uzbekistan is implementing programs to upgrade industrial facilities and introduce cost-effective solutions.

With the country’s population expected to reach 41 million by 2030 and the economy projected to double in size, energy demand is set to rise 1.5 times from current levels. To meet this challenge, the government is accelerating efforts to improve energy management and enhance sustainability.

A scientific study conducted in Samarkand, Syrdarya, and Jizzakh identified significant energy-saving opportunities. Replacing 35,000 outdated machines in small and medium-sized enterprises alone could cut annual consumption by 385 million kilowatt hours of electricity and 50 million cubic meters of gas.

To further boost energy efficiency, Uzbekistan is expanding decentralized renewable energy solutions:

Solar power expansion: The government plans to install 100-megawatt solar power stations in 300 neighborhoods, saving 45 million cubic meters of gas this year.

Micro-hydropower projects: More than 1,000 small hydropower stations will be built along canals and streams, generating an additional 175 million kilowatt hours of electricity.

Street lighting efficiency: Switching to solar-powered street lights could reduce electricity consumption in this sector by half, from 200 million kilowatt hours per year.

A new monitoring system will be introduced to track energy consumption and strengthen oversight.

Authorities are also promoting energy conservation in homes and workplaces, encouraging the adoption of solar panels and alternative energy sources to lower costs and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

Additionally, a specialized energy supply strategy is being developed for the densely populated Fergana Valley, with plans to expand this model to other regions.