Record electricity demand prompts temporary power cuts in parts of Uzbekistan

According to the Ministry of Energy, electricity consumption within Uzbekistan's Unified Energy System reached a historic high of 291 million kWh on July 16, exceeding the previous summer record by 6.7%.

Electricity generation also set a new record, reaching 295.4 million kWh in a single day.

The ministry said the prolonged heatwave has caused overhead transmission lines and electrical equipment to overheat well beyond normal operating levels. At the same time, the widespread use of air conditioners, refrigerators, and other electrical appliances during daytime hours has sharply increased the load on the power grid, raising the risk of equipment failures and large-scale outages.

When demand approaches critical levels, dispatch centers temporarily disconnect individual sections of the network to prevent equipment damage and avoid major accidents that could take several days to repair, the ministry explained. Around-the-clock emergency response teams have also been deployed to address any faults as quickly as possible.

Two-hour electricity restrictions have been introduced in several districts across the country. The measures currently affect 1,750 consumers in Kukdala and Chiroqchi districts of Kashkadarya region, 1,200 consumers in Sharof Rashidov and Zaamin districts of Jizzakh region, 1,300 consumers in Shavat, Gurlan, and Qoshkopir districts of Khorezm region, and 1,000 consumers in Tashkent and Zangiota districts of Tashkent region.

The Ministry of Energy urged residents to use electricity responsibly and avoid operating electrical appliances unnecessarily during periods of peak demand. It also apologized for the temporary inconvenience caused by the restrictions.