Uzbekistan Expands Hydropower and Water Infrastructure

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev on 29 April reviewed a presentation on the current status and future development prospects of the country’s hydropower sector.

It was noted that the total length of rivers, canals, and other water arteries in Uzbekistan exceeds 150,000 kilometers, creating significant potential for the integrated use of water resources. These resources can be utilized not only for water supply and irrigation, but also for electricity generation, economic development, and environmental sustainability.

Currently, hydropower accounts for around 10–12 percent of total electricity generation, while the majority of production still relies on traditional sources such as natural gas and coal.

In this context, the accelerated development of hydropower was emphasized as a strategic priority for strengthening energy security and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Significant progress has already been achieved in recent years. The number of hydropower plants increased from 36 in 2017 to 100 by 2025, while installed capacity grew from 1.6 gigawatts to 2.4 gigawatts. The UzHydroPower plant has been commissioned, becoming the only facility in Central Asia producing hydro turbines and related equipment.

At the same time, it was highlighted that a substantial share of hydropower potential remains untapped. Given economic growth and population expansion, the need to accelerate the development of water-based energy resources and expand generating capacity was underlined.

The presentation included plans for 73 investment projects worth a total of US$5.8 billion to be implemented between 2026 and 2032, which are expected to add 3.6 gigawatts of capacity. In 2026 alone, 13 hydropower plants with a combined capacity of 114 megawatts are planned to be commissioned, generating 537 million kilowatt-hours annually and creating new jobs.

Among priority projects is the Upper Pskem hydropower plant in Bostanlyk district, valued at US$365 million, with a capacity of 160 megawatts and annual generation of 484 million kilowatt-hours. The project is expected to supply electricity to more than 160,000 households. Construction of the Sokh hydropower plant in the Fergana region is also planned, which will cover a significant share of the region’s electricity demand.

Special attention is being given to small hydropower development. Around 3,000 small and micro hydropower plants are planned with a total capacity of 164 megawatts, along with projects on the Upper Tupalang water resources with a potential exceeding 500 megawatts.

In addition, prospects for pumped-storage hydropower plants were reviewed. Three facilities with a total capacity of 1.4 gigawatts are under development. The introduction of digital technologies and artificial intelligence-based monitoring systems was identified as a key direction for improving sector efficiency.

The Head of State instructed responsible authorities to ensure timely implementation of all planned projects, increase local production content, and accelerate the adoption of modern technological solutions.

Special attention was also given to the development of waterfront areas in the capital. Projects are planned in Tashkent to create green zones, modernize urban infrastructure, and improve the local microclimate.

Within the “Coastal Zone” project, landscaping of 306 hectares along the Chirchik River is planned, along with the creation of a green belt along the Bektemir canal.

An additional project proposes the creation of artificial reservoirs in the capital. The President instructed to increase their number from four to twelve in order to improve urban living conditions and climate resilience.