National project: Uzbekistan is building a cascade of hydroelectric power plants on Naryn
In the Namangan region of Uzbekistan, the implementation of a large–scale energy project is in full swing – the construction of a cascade of Naryn hydroelectric power stations. This ambitious project, launched thanks to the initiative of the head of state, marks a new stage in the development of the country’s energy independence and is the first national project in the history of Uzbekistan in the field of hydropower, carried out entirely at the expense of domestic resources and capabilities, Uzbekistan 24 TV channel reports.
Recently, the next stage of construction of this strategically important facility has begun, the total design capacity of which will be 228 MW. The project is being implemented in accordance with the decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated March 30, 2023 “On further measures to reform the hydropower sector”, which provides for the construction of a cascade of Naryn HPPs in Namangan region in the period from 2024 to 2030. The total cost of the megaproject is estimated at 428.5 million US dollars, and its full completion is scheduled for 2028.
The Naryn River, originating in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan and flowing through the Fergana Valley, is of vital importance for the region, being not only a source of water for irrigation, but also having a rich history. In the past, its shores served as a place for fishing and recreation of the local population. Today, the mighty river is designed to become a source of “green” energy for thousands of residents of Namangan region.
Construction works at the facility are being carried out at an intensive pace. Already in March 2024, during the President’s visit to Namangan, this grandiose undertaking was launched. It is noteworthy that more than 300 residents from nearby mahallas, such as “Yangi er”, “Yangi ҳayat”, “Dystlik” and “Ziyekor”, are involved in the construction, which contributes to the creation of new jobs in the region.
The cascade of Naryn HPPs will consist of six hydroelectric power stations, each with a capacity of 38 MW. According to the head of the HPP Abdumazhid Abdugoibov, at the first stage it is planned to put into operation four hydroelectric units with a total capacity of 38 MW by September of this year, by the Independence Day of Uzbekistan. This will provide electricity to about 30 thousand households. All generated energy will be supplied to the 220/110 kV ORU substation and further distributed between the Yulduz and Kizilravot substations for subsequent supply to the population.
As reported in the report, special pride is caused by the fact that during the construction of the Naryn HPP, hydroelectric units manufactured in Uzbekistan, as well as local construction materials and labor resources are used. This highlights the country’s growing industrial and technological potential. Liu Li Yun, a Chinese design engineer, noted that this is a major state project developed by the Tashkent Design Institute in cooperation with Chinese specialists, and the work is progressing very quickly.
It is expected that after full commissioning, the cascade of Naryn HPPs will generate 1,025 million kWh of electricity annually. This amount will be enough to meet the needs of 430 thousand households. In addition, the project will save 277 million cubic meters of natural gas annually and create more than 130 permanent jobs.
Original (in Russian): Национальный проект: Узбекистан строит каскад ГЭС на Нарыне
