BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 9. The European Union and Uzbekistan already cooperate closely on strengthening regional energy connectivity to enhance the security of electricity supply and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources, including wind and solar, into the power grid, Ambassador of the European Union to Uzbekistan Toivo Klaar told Trend.
"This cooperation is being implemented through regional initiatives such as the Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA) program, as well as support for energy-related investments," he said.
Klaar recalled that in October, the European Union, together with its partners, announced new investments in hydropower infrastructure across Central Asia.
"In particular, the Kambarata-1 hydropower plant project in Kyrgyzstan has marked significant progress, with memoranda of understanding totaling €900 million signed between the European Union, the European Investment Bank, and Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan," he noted.
He added that the Rogun hydropower plant in Tajikistan represents another strategically important project for the entire Central Asian region.
"This project could double Tajikistan’s energy production by 2032, help address domestic electricity shortages, advance regional decarbonization efforts, and enable electricity exports. The European Union and several international donors are jointly building a sustainable foundation for its implementation," Klaar said.
According to him, another key initiative is the Central Asia–South Asia power transmission project, commonly known as CASA-1000, which looks to bring in surplus electricity from Central Asia to high-demand markets in South Asia.
"This ambitious grid interconnection project could transmit up to 1,300 megawatts of electricity. All participating regions stand to benefit through improved grid stability and enhanced energy security for electricity consumers. The European Investment Bank is among the institutions providing financing for this project," Klaar added.
The Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA) program is a 6.8 million euro EU initiative (2022-2026) aimed at promoting sustainable energy in Central Asia by enhancing energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). It focuses on developing national policies, capacity building, investment improvement, and regional cooperation to create reliable and affordable energy systems across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
The program emphasizes gender-responsive approaches, training for local professionals, public awareness, and cross-border trade in energy. Its impact includes creating a more inclusive energy supply, addressing climate change through sustainable sources, and empowering local institutions with relevant expertise.