Within the framework of the project “Clean energy for buildings in Uzbekistan”, it is planned to increase energy efficiency, save electricity and heat through reconstruction and modernization based on energy-saving technologies and the use of renewable energy sources in social facilities.

To this end, work is underway to further enhance cooperation with the World Bank. UzA Correspondent interviewed the Executive Director of the Intersectoral Energy Saving Fund under the Ministry of Energy, Elzod Rakhmanov.

– The Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Intersectoral Energy Saving Fund operating under it, with the assistance of the World Bank and relevant agencies, have developed the project “Clean energy for buildings in Uzbekistan, – said Elzod Rakhmanov. – It is planned that this project will be implemented at the expense of a concessional loan from the World Bank for $143 million.

At the same time, financing is provided by the International Development Association operating under the World Bank at a low-interest rate for 30 years, including a 5-year grace period.

It should be noted that on May 24-25, 2022, negotiations on loans were held between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the International Development Association. Taking into account Uzbekistan's leading positions in increasing the potential of using renewable energy sources, actions to combat climate change, and big goals to improve energy efficiency, on June 24, the Board of Directors of the International Development Association unanimously supported the project.

It will cover all the territories of Uzbekistan. The energy-efficient modernization of more than 800 institutions of preschool, public education and healthcare is planned within its framework.

By the resolution of the President of Uzbekistan “On measures for the implementation of the “Clean energy for buildings in Uzbekistan with the participation of the World Bank” of March 30, 2023, it is planned that the project will be implemented in Karakalpakstan, in all regions and the city of Tashkent during 2023-2028.

For the effective implementation of the project, the off-budget Intersectoral Energy Saving Fund under the Ministry of Energy will involve international consultants with experience in this field at the preliminary stages.

An interdepartmental commission, responsible for the overall control and coordination of the project implementation process, will be established.

Another aspect that deserves attention. Such a project will be implemented for the first time in Uzbekistan. The funds received through energy saving under the project scheme will be used to finance new projects.

The main result of the project will be an increase in the energy efficiency of public buildings, an improvement of the regulatory framework for streamlining the rules for attracting investment in projects supporting energy conservation and clean energy generation.

Barno Meliqulova, UzA