Uzbekistan Promotes Independent Solar Installations

The Ministry of Energy has refuted critical news circulating on social networks, which claim that the installation of solar panels in various establishments, both public and private, has turned into a monopoly situation. The Ministry dismissed these claims as baseless and originating from anonymous sources.

In line with global trends, Uzbekistan is actively prioritizing the adoption of eco-friendly and cost-effective renewable energy sources. This move serves to preempt potential electricity supply issues and significantly reduce reliance on natural gas, while curbing the emission of harmful gases into the atmosphere.

Notably, the responsibility for deploying small-scale solar photovoltaic systems within the country lies with private business entities, not the government. Presently, over 100 independent enterprises are engaged in installing solar photovoltaic systems and solar water heating devices. These businesses operate autonomously and are in healthy competition with one another. There exist no constraints on the direct acquisition, import, delivery, installation, or servicing of solar photovoltaic systems from foreign sources.

The populace and entrepreneurs can freely enter into agreements with their preferred business entity to have solar systems installed on their premises. The Ministry firmly prohibits any coercive tactics or practices that hinder the procurement process, such as inflated prices or interest rate manipulation.

In 2023, "Green Energy" LLC secured a contract worth 93 billion soums (equivalent to 8.08 million dollars) to procure, install, and service solar photovoltaic power plants with a collective capacity of 10 MW for governmental and public sector facilities. Additionally, "Sun High Tech" is set to contribute a 2 MW solar photovoltaic power plant.