Uzbekistan Commissions 64 Small and Micro Hydropower Plants

en.Wedoany.com Reported - On August 20, Uzbekistan has completed and commissioned 64 small and micro hydropower plants, with a combined installed capacity of 40.8 MW. Under the current expansion plan, the country's small and micro hydropower installed capacity will increase by 164 MW by 2030, reaching 204.8 MW.

Small and micro hydropower plants primarily generate electricity from the flow of rivers, streams, and existing irrigation canals, enabling distributed power generation without the need for large reservoirs. Relevant projects will prioritize rural areas and regions with insufficient power supply, while attracting local private developers to participate in construction and operation.

According to the Micro Hydropower Development Program adopted by Uzbekistan in March 2025, the country will build 2,983 micro hydropower plants, adding 164 MW of installed capacity, with an expected annual power generation of 500 million kWh, providing electricity to approximately 280,000 people. The construction phase is planned to create 1,200 jobs, with 520 long-term positions established after commissioning.

Project land is allocated by the energy authorities in accordance with the construction plan, with 20-year lease terms offered to developers. The generated electricity will be connected to the regional distribution grid, providing local power sources for residents and small and medium-sized enterprises along irrigation canals.

The World Bank has provided a $150 million concessional loan for Uzbekistan's small hydropower expansion program, and plans to mobilize approximately $38 million in commercial financing. This financing project will support up to 150 MW of small hydropower investment between 2025 and 2030, with an expected annual power generation exceeding 520 million kWh.