Uzbekistan to build nearly 3,000 micro hydro plants to boost clean energy
New initiative aims to supply electricity to 280,000 people and reduce CO₂ emissions by 251,000 tons annually.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV) — Uzbekistan is planning to construct 2,983 micro hydroelectric power plants by 2026, as part of an ambitious national strategy to expand clean energy access and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. The initiative, approved under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s decree issued on March 28, sets out detailed targets for nationwide implementation over the next two years.
According to the presidential decree titled Additional measures to develop the network of micro hydroelectric power plants in Uzbekistan, the new facilities will collectively add 164 megawatts of generating capacity and produce 500 million kilowatt-hours of renewable electricity annually.
Officials say the micro hydro plants will supply electricity to approximately 280,000 people across the country. Beyond expanding access, the project is expected to significantly cut annual natural gas consumption by 151 million cubic meters and prevent up to 251,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions—supporting Uzbekistan’s broader environmental and energy security goals.
A key component of the strategy involves integrating the micro hydro plants into existing irrigation systems, with nearly 3,000 such land areas earmarked for development. This approach allows the government to optimize water use while expanding renewable energy production.
The provinces with the highest number of planned installations include Andijan (763 plants), Surkhandarya (300), and Kashkadarya (269). Even the capital, Tashkent, is expected to host 12 new micro hydro stations.
In addition to energy and environmental benefits, the project will also contribute to employment. Around 1,200 workers will be employed during the construction phase, and approximately 520 permanent jobs will be created once the plants are operational.
To facilitate the rapid rollout, land plots designated for construction will be formally allocated to the Ministry of Energy by May 1, 2025. The ministry will then lease the land to project initiators for a period of 20 years, under a streamlined process to encourage investment and ease implementation.
To oversee the rollout, a special implementation group dedicated to small and micro hydroelectric projects will be established under the Ministry of Energy’s supervision.
This initiative forms part of Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to diversify its energy mix and promote sustainable rural development, while aligning with international commitments to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
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