Why is Uzbekistan halting natural gas exports?

Driven by rapidly increasing domestic energy demand, Uzbekistan has shifted from being an energy exporter to an importer since 2020,. As a result, the government has planned to halt natural gas exports to meet the country's needs.

Why is Uzbekistan becoming an energy importer?

This shift reflects Uzbekistan's transition from an energy exporter to an energy importer. Uzbekistan's move toward greater reliance on energy imports became evident in specific sectors. The country became a net importer of coal in 2012, oil products by 2018, and electricity in 2019.

How can Uzbekistan improve energy security?

Strengthening regional energy integration and enabling multilateral energy trade will help Uzbekistan address short-term redundancies, facilitate the integration of renewable energy, and enhance energy security and resilience in the long run.

Should Uzbekistan decarbonize the energy sector?

Decarbonizing the energy sector is essential to achieving these targets. Natural gas dominates Uzbekistan’s energy mix, making up 83% of the total, while renewable energy, primarily hydropower, contributes just 1%. Similarly, natural gas accounts for 82% of electricity generation, with hydropower contributing 9%.

How many solar projects are there in Uzbekistan?

National Projects: Ten large-scale solar projects totaling 2,050 MW have been put out to tender in Uzbekistan, primarily in the southern and southwestern regions. As of August 2021, 1,300 MW had been awarded, and the 100 MW project in the Navoi region began operations in August 2021.

Do Uzbek buildings need energy audit passports?

All public and commercial buildings require energy audit passports, and all publicly funded projects require energy efficiency surveys. Heating dominates Uzbek building energy consumption. The district heating systems, originating from the Soviet era, are outdated and inefficient.