Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) – By the end of 2028, the total capacity of hydropower plants in Uzbekistan is expected to reach 5508 megawatts. This target is set by a presidential resolution on "Measures to Accelerate Reforms in the Hydropower Sector."

The j approved the Hydropower Development Program for the period from 2024 to 2028. Under this program, "Uzbekhydroenergy" JSC will implement investment projects to construct hydropower plants with a total capacity of 1018 megawatts.

In addition, plans include the construction of hydropower plants with a combined capacity of 449 megawatts through foreign loans guaranteed by the state.

Furthermore, projects involving private investors will be undertaken to add 2275 megawatts of capacity.

To coordinate these efforts, a Republican Commission on Hydropower Development has been established. The commission’s responsibilities include overseeing the use of international financial resources, attracting direct investments, localizing the production of equipment and spare parts for hydropower plants, and organizing industrial cooperation.

Working groups led by the Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, the khokims (governors) of the regions, and the city of Tashkent will focus on accelerating the construction of micro and small hydropower plants with private sector involvement. Specifically, ten investment projects are planned, four of which involve the creation of pumped-storage hydropower plants. Project documentation for these is already being developed, and investors will be selected through tenders within the framework of public-private partnerships.

The resolution also allows for the development of project documentation based on proposals from international design and consulting organizations using international construction standards. Foreign investors will be chosen based on the best offers, and contracts will be concluded with them.

Special attention is being given to studying international experiences, particularly those of Turkey and China, in the construction of micro and small hydropower plants.

One planned project is the construction of the Kuyichotkol Hydropower Plant, which will be equipped with four hydro units, each with a capacity of 2.5 megawatts. For the first time in Uzbekistan, a special concrete mixture will be used to create a concrete-type dam.

During the construction of the Pskam Hydropower Plant, geocomposite waterproofing products from the Italian company Carpi will be used for the first time in Uzbekistan to prevent water filtration through the upper barrier of the dam.

A leading Chinese company will partner on another project to produce hydro units with a capacity of up to 40 megawatts.