What happened
Energy Minister Jurabek Mirzamahmudov announced during his speech in the Legislative Chamber that Uzbekistan had transitioned to a positive electricity balance in 2025 and became a net exporter. The country plans to export 2.6 billion kWh to Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Additional energy reserves and new capacities made it possible to move from import to export.
Why is this important
The transition to net exports means reducing dependence on external supplies and increasing energy sustainability. Electricity exports have become a tool for ensuring sufficient water levels in neighboring countries during the growing season, which, in turn, stabilizes water supply in the regions and reduces risks for Uzbekistan’s agriculture.
Numbers and facts
- 2.6 billion kWh of electricity is planned to be supplied to Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.
- Water resources in the region in 2025 were 35% below normal due to the lack of rainfall in summer.
- Additional energy capacity allowed Uzbekistan to move from a net importer to a net exporter.
- Thanks to electricity exports, farmers did not experience water shortages for irrigation during the summer months.
Context
Uzbekistan continues to modernize generating capacities and diversify its energy balance. Regional electricity supplies play a role in water resource management in Central Asia: electricity exchange helps maintain the operation of hydroelectric hubs in neighboring countries and reduces the effects of the water shortage period.
