The World Bank is ready to support small hydropower projects in Uzbekistan

Negotiations were held between the Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan Khurshed Mustafayev and representatives of the World Bank dedicated to supporting small and micro-hydropower projects in the country.

During the talks, Uzbekistan’s goals in the field of renewable energy, the importance of relevant projects and the necessary technical and financial solutions were discussed. The possibility of World Bank support in the preparation of investment and financial projects for the small hydropower sector was also considered.

Special attention is paid to the importance of the development of small and micro-hydroelectric power plants to ensure the country’s energy security, improve electricity supply in rural areas and create new opportunities for small businesses.

Representatives of the World Bank noted that several major technical studies have already been conducted in the field of small and micro hydropower, including an initial assessment of the potential of small and medium-sized hydropower plants conducted in 2021.

It was reported that based on these studies, new technical assistance mechanisms and financial instruments are being developed for the implementation of selected projects.

Uzbekistan expressed readiness to continue close cooperation with the World Bank and stressed the importance of joint work on the construction of several small hydroelectric power plants.

During the negotiations, an agreement was reached on the establishment of an operational working group to address issues of financing, technical expertise and environmental aspects.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to hold weekly meetings to promptly resolve current issues and accelerate the preparation of projects. The World Bank expressed great interest in the project and called for the active participation of both sides.

In addition, previous achievements of the World Bank in the field of hydropower and technical assistance projects implemented in Uzbekistan, including the development of public-private partnership mechanisms in hydropower and attracting investors, were considered during the negotiations.

In the future, the parties agreed to strengthen regular communication and technical support for the effective implementation of projects.

UzDaily.uz