China and Uzbekistan's green energy partnership for sustainable growth

As the Fourth Tashkent International Investment Forum unfolds in Tashkent, Chinese enterprises are actively seeking investment opportunities in Uzbekistan. 

China has become Uzbekistan's largest trading partner and a significant source of investment. The focus of their investments is gradually shifting from traditional energy and infrastructure to the new energy and high-tech manufacturing sectors.

Located in the heart of Central Asia, Uzbekistan is a key participant in the cooperation among Central Asian countries, as well as the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and other relevant initiatives within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization framework. These platforms provide essential opportunities for dialogue in green cooperation.

The "Uzbekistan–2030" strategy, presented as the blueprint for President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's new term, marks the beginning of a new era in the development of the country. Uzbekistan is prioritizing green energy growth and has launched large-scale projects in this sector, fostering a favorable environment for investment.

Green energy has become a cornerstone of bilateral cooperation between China and Uzbekistan. In recent years, China has accelerated the green and low-carbon transformation of its development model. At the same time, China is actively working with countries participating in the BRI to build a "Green Silk Road." 

During the recent "Central Asia Expedition" media tour, CGTN reporters observed the successful implementation of green cooperation between the two countries. The Chinese-built wind farm in the Bukhara region, the largest of its kind in Central Asia, has commenced commercial operations. Fully integrated into Uzbekistan's national grid, the project is expected to generate 3.6 terawatt-hours of clean energy annually, helping reduce CO2 emissions by 1.6 million tonnes. The Uzbek government announced a goal to increase the share of renewables in total energy consumption to 50 percent by 2030.

Another key element of Uzbekistan's green growth strategy is the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs). The BYD factory in the Jizzakh region, which manufactures EVs, has an initial annual production capacity of 50,000 cars. With various government incentives in place, EV sales have soared in Uzbekistan, making it the leading adopter of EVs in Central Asia.

China has established a significant technological advantage in key industries, including solar energy, wind power, hydropower and electric vehicles. This expertise makes China a crucial partner for Uzbekistan in its efforts to shift toward more sustainable and eco-friendly energy solutions.

The 2023 China-Central Asia Summit in Xi'an emphasized the need to enhance cooperation in the green economy. With leaders convening in Astana this month, China's initiatives to foster a green transformation are poised to deliver substantial benefits to Uzbekistan and the wider Central Asian region.