BAKU, Azerbaijan, Aug.6. During the first half of 2026, construction activities for the Shafag project progressed at the site in the Jabrayil district, said bp.
“Procurement and delivery of key equipment, including photovoltaic modules and structural components, were successfully completed, and significant progress was made on pile and tracker installation. The first batches of electrical equipment were delivered to site, enabling the commencement of electrical installation activities in the coming weeks,” said the company in its latest report.
bp recalled that in early April, the project achieved a major milestone with the successful installation of the first solar panel at the site.
“Local employment has continued to increase, with around 420 people currently working on the project, including 150 nationals from the liberated areas. At peak construction, the project is expected to create more than 700 jobs, consequently the existing camp facilities are being expanded to accommodate the growing workforce. The project maintained a strong focus on environmental protection, including close monitoring of vegetation clearance and ongoing coordination with the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources to support the safe relocation of wildlife,” said the company.
Reportedly, construction activities for the Shafag project are expected to continue through mid-2027.
The $200 million Shafag (Jabrayil) solar project, sanctioned in June 2025, consists of construction of a new 240MW AC solar plant in the Jabrayil district of Azerbaijan.
The project is linked to the Sangachal terminal electrification (STEL) project via a new commercial structure called ‘virtual power transfer arrangement’, which will enable the terminal to connect to the national grid, operated by AzerEnerji, via new facilities to be built both within and outside the terminal, including a new 220/110 kV electricity substation.
Together, the Shafag and STEL projects are expected to support the reduction of operational emissions by around 50% over the future life of the Sangachal terminal, based on the current outlook and plans.
Following the electrification of the terminal, the seven gas turbines currently used at the terminal to generate power, will be removed in phases, freeing up the fuel gas for export.
The shareholding interests in Shafag Jabrayil Solar Limited (SJSL) are: bp 40.01%, SOCAR Green 39.99%, Azerbaijan Business Development Fund 10%, and MVM 10%.
