ADB funds Central Asia’s biggest solar complex in Uzbekistan, pairing 1 GW PV with 1,336 MWh storage - Energies Media
Published December 02, 2025
ADB Invests in Uzbekistan's Largest Solar Project, Combining 1 GW of PV Capacity with 1,336 MWh of Storage
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced its financial support for a significant solar energy project in Uzbekistan, which is set to become the largest solar complex in Central Asia. This ambitious initiative will integrate 1 gigawatt (GW) of photovoltaic (PV) capacity with an impressive 1,336 megawatt-hours (MWh) of energy storage. The project aims to enhance the country’s renewable energy landscape and contribute to its commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
Uzbekistan is strategically positioned to harness solar energy due to its geographical advantages, receiving abundant sunlight throughout the year. The new solar complex is expected to play a pivotal role in the nation’s energy transition, aligning with its goals outlined in the Uzbekistan Renewable Energy Development Strategy.
Project Overview and Financing
The ADB has agreed to provide a loan of $100 million for the development of this solar project. This funding is part of a broader effort to support the growth of renewable energy sources in Uzbekistan, which has been actively seeking to diversify its energy portfolio. The total cost of the solar complex is estimated to be around $1.2 billion, with additional financing expected from other international financial institutions and private investors.
The project will be located in the Navoi region, which has been identified as an optimal site for solar energy generation. The combination of a 1 GW solar PV plant and a 1,336 MWh energy storage system will enable the facility to provide a stable and reliable supply of electricity, even during periods of low sunlight. This is particularly important for ensuring grid stability and meeting peak demand in the region.
Significance of Energy Storage
Energy storage is a crucial component of modern renewable energy systems, allowing for the efficient management of electricity supply and demand. The 1,336 MWh storage capacity will enable the solar complex to store excess energy generated during the day and release it during the night or during peak demand periods. This capability will enhance the reliability of the electricity supply and reduce the need for fossil fuel-based power generation.
As Uzbekistan continues to develop its renewable energy sector, the integration of energy storage solutions will be essential in overcoming the intermittent nature of solar power. The ADB’s investment in this project underscores the importance of innovative technologies in facilitating the transition to a sustainable energy future.
Environmental and Economic Impacts
The development of the solar complex is expected to yield significant environmental benefits by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. Uzbekistan has set ambitious targets for increasing the share of renewable energy in its total energy mix, with a goal of generating 25% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
In addition to environmental advantages, the project is anticipated to have a positive economic impact on the local community. The construction and operation of the solar facility will create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the Navoi region. Furthermore, the project will contribute to energy security by diversifying the energy supply and reducing the vulnerability associated with dependence on imported fossil fuels.
Government Support and Policy Framework
The Uzbek government has demonstrated strong support for the development of renewable energy projects, recognizing the need to transition towards a more sustainable energy system. This commitment is reflected in the country’s legislative framework, which aims to attract foreign investment and facilitate the development of renewable energy projects.
The government has implemented various incentives, including feed-in tariffs and tax exemptions, to encourage private sector participation in the renewable energy sector. These policies have created a favorable environment for investment and have attracted international financial institutions, such as the ADB, to support projects like the solar complex in Navoi.
Future Prospects for Renewable Energy in Uzbekistan
As Uzbekistan moves forward with its renewable energy agenda, the successful implementation of the solar complex will serve as a model for future projects in the region. The integration of large-scale solar PV systems with energy storage solutions is expected to become increasingly common as the country seeks to enhance its energy resilience and sustainability.
The ADB’s investment in the Navoi solar project is part of a larger strategy to support the development of renewable energy infrastructure in Central Asia. The bank has been actively involved in financing various renewable energy initiatives across the region, recognizing the potential for solar and wind energy to transform the energy landscape.
In conclusion, the partnership between the ADB and the Uzbek government in developing Central Asia’s largest solar complex represents a significant step towards achieving a sustainable energy future for the country. With the combination of 1 GW of solar PV capacity and 1,336 MWh of energy storage, Uzbekistan is poised to make substantial progress in its renewable energy goals, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable economy.
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