Uzbekistan Expands Solar Panel Installation with a USD 154 Million Loan Program
Uzbekistan: Uzbekistan will allocate 2 trillion soums (EUR 148.27 million) in preferential loans to support the installation of solar panels and water heaters on homes and businesses. This initiative mandates the allocation of at least 50% of available rooftop space for solar equipment. Since May 2023, newly constructed multi-story buildings are already required to meet this standard. The government aims to increase the share of renewable energy in total generation from 16% to 26%, with an additional USD 300 million (EUR 288.1 million) investment in low-carbon projects. Energy Minister, Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov stated that the program aligns with broader efforts to improve energy efficiency, modernize enterprises, and promote resource conservation.
The initiative to expand solar energy adoption faced challenges when business owners in Syrdarya protested against pressure to install panels under the threat of electricity disconnections. The regional power company later clarified that officials had misinterpreted the president's decree, and the Ministry of Energy confirmed that no official directive had been issued to force installations. To further energy conservation efforts, the president has tasked key government officials with developing strategies to reduce energy costs by 15 to 20% while increasing added value through energy efficiency.
Source: Gazeta.uz