Dam Modernization and Digital networks: Tajikistan’s New Energy Strategy
The Government of Tajikistan has approved a strategic document – a program for the development of the electric power sector for 2026-2030. The initiative, previously announced by the President of the Republic Emomali Rahmon in a message to the parliament, is aimed at large-scale modernization of infrastructure and strengthening the country’s energy independence. According to the plans, by 2030 the total generation capacity in the republic should grow by 2,680 MW. The document focuses on hydropower potential, which remains the foundation of Tajikistan’s energy system. The central project of the program is the continuation of the construction of the Rogun Dam. In parallel with the construction of new facilities, a deep modernization of existing facilities is planned. In particular, replacement of units at Nurek Dam, Sarband Dam and Kairakkum Dam is envisaged. These measures, according to the authors of the document, will significantly increase the current electricity generation.
In addition to traditional hydropower, the electricity sector development program provides for the diversification of energy sources through the construction of solar and wind power plants. It is planned to put into operation solar generation facilities with a total capacity of at least 750 MW in the Sughd and Khatlon regions of Tajikistan. The implementation of these projects in combination with the development of Dams will allow Tajikistan to significantly increase its export potential. It is expected that by the end of the decade, the volume of electricity supplies abroad will reach 5 billion kilowatt-hours per year. An important component of the reform will be the creation of a competitive market and the reduction of technical losses in the networks, which requires the renewal of high-voltage transmission lines and the construction of new substations, especially in the northern regions of the country and in Dushanbe.
Technological renewal of the industry involves the active introduction of digital solutions. Within the framework of the program, it is planned to use intelligent accounting and control systems, as well as the introduction of a SCADA system for automated control of power grids in real time. It is planned to allocate about 60.4 billion somoni for the implementation of all the planned activities, which is equivalent to about 6.5 billion dollars. Financing will be provided from several sources, including the state budget, private investment and funds from international development partners. The program also pays attention to personnel training: a system of retraining specialists capable of working in the conditions of digital transformation of the sector will be created to service high-tech equipment.
Original (in Russian): Модернизация ГЭС и цифровые сети: новая энергостратегия Таджикистана
