Uzbekistan and France discuss $1.8 billion in new energy projects

Uzbekistan and France are developing six energy projects worth a combined $1.8 billion as the two countries seek to expand cooperation in power generation, electricity networks, gas infrastructure, and digital technologies, according to the Ministry of Energy.

Photo: Ministry of Energy

The projects were discussed during a meeting on July 8 between Energy Minister Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Chairman of the Uzbekistan–France Business Council at MEDEF International Claude Imauven, and French Ambassador to Uzbekistan Walid Fouque.

The parties reviewed opportunities to deepen cooperation in the energy sector and advance new investment initiatives.

According to the ministry, bilateral cooperation gained new momentum following President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's state visit to France, as well as the recent visit by Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Presidential Administration, who met with French President Emmanuel Macron.

The ministry said three major energy projects involving French companies, with a combined value of around $2 billion, are already under implementation. Another six projects worth $1.8 billion are currently being developed, bringing the total portfolio of joint initiatives to more than $4 billion.

Particular attention was given to cooperation with EDF, which is constructing combined-cycle gas turbine power plants in the Syrdarya and Surkhandarya regions with a total generating capacity of more than 3.1 GW.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing renewable energy projects by TotalEnergies and Voltalia, including solar and wind power plants as well as energy storage systems.

French companies presented advanced technologies, innovative solutions, investment opportunities, and proposals for new projects in Uzbekistan.

The two sides also discussed expanding cooperation in the development of modern energy infrastructure, the construction of new power generation facilities, high-voltage transmission networks, energy storage systems, industrial and gas transportation infrastructure, energy efficiency, digitalization of the sector, engineering, workforce training, and the exchange of expertise.