Uzbekistan Inaugurates Central Asia’s Largest Wind Farm

Uzbekistan has marked a significant step toward clean energy transition with the inauguration of Central Asia’s largest wind farm, the Zarafshan wind project, developed by Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy leader, Masdar. The 500-megawatt (MW) facility is set to bolster the nation’s clean energy ambitions and transform Uzbekistan into a regional hub for renewables.

Key Figures Attend Landmark Event

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev presided over the inauguration, accompanied by Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, UAE's Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and chairman of Masdar, and Suhail Al Mazrouei, UAE’s Minister of Energy and Infrastructure. Dr. Al Jaber emphasized the strong partnership between Uzbekistan and the UAE, highlighting their shared vision of accelerating global renewable energy capacity by 2030.

Masdar's Expanding Investments in Uzbekistan

Masdar, a global leader in renewable energy, has committed $2 billion toward clean energy projects in Uzbekistan, targeting over two gigawatts (GW) of capacity. The company is also in early-stage development of an additional four GW of renewables in the country.

Furthermore, Masdar and Uzbekistan's Ministry of Energy are collaborating on a one-GW wind project in Mingbulak, announced during the COP29 summit in Azerbaijan. This partnership underscores Uzbekistan's ambition to achieve 20 GW of clean energy capacity by 2030, including solar, wind, and the country’s first battery storage project.

A Strategic Role in Global Clean Energy Transition

Uzbekistan’s clean energy initiatives come at a time when international investment in renewables needs to triple to $1.5 trillion annually by 2030, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The Zarafshan wind farm not only reinforces the country’s leadership in the region but also contributes to global efforts to curb emissions and mitigate climate change.

Masdar’s Chief Executive, Mohamed Al Ramahi, highlighted Uzbekistan’s strategic position as a vital hub on the historic Silk Road and its evolving role in pioneering renewable energy projects.

Masdar’s Global Impact and Strategic Partnerships

Established in 2006, Masdar has emerged as a major force in renewable energy, with projects spanning over 40 countries. Its portfolio, currently exceeding 30 GW, is on track to reach 100 GW by 2030.

Masdar’s global influence was further underscored last month when it partnered with China’s Silk Road Fund to co-invest in renewable energy projects in developing nations under the Belt and Road Initiative. The Silk Road Fund plans to invest up to 20 billion yuan ($2.76 billion) in projects alongside Masdar.

A New Chapter for Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan's clean energy journey, epitomized by the Zarafshan wind farm, represents not only a milestone for the country but also a significant contribution to the global clean energy transition. As nations increasingly prioritize renewable investments, Uzbekistan's success story serves as a testament to the transformative potential of international partnerships.