Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A competitive wholesale electricity market will start operating in Uzbekistan from 2026, as announced by Sherzod Khodjayev, Director of the Energy Market Development and Regulation Agency, in an interview with the O’zbekiston 24 TV channel.

According to Khodjayev, electricity trading will take place through a transparent electronic platform, with prices determined on an hourly basis. International consultants, including Germany’s DNV and the U.S.-based BCG, have been engaged to develop the platform’s technical aspects. The phased launch of the system is set to begin in 2026.

In May 2024, the Cabinet of Ministers approved regulations for the Energy Market Development and Regulation Agency, which is responsible for establishing a competitive wholesale and retail electricity market. From 2026, the agency will also oversee tariff approvals and other electricity supply payments.

Notably, in December 2024, the President of Uzbekistan emphasized the need for a transition to a competitive market-based energy model during a meeting with entrepreneurs. He also announced the launch of an online wholesale electricity market in 2025.