ADB Approves $200 Mln Loan for Uzbekistan's Energy System Upgrade

Tashkent, Sept. 21 -- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to assist Uzbekistan in modernizing and digitizing its energy distribution system, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and the reliability of electricity services. Uzbekistan's distribution system serves 7.6 million households and industries. However, it faces issues due to outdated infrastructure built in the 1960s, resulting in frequent power outages, particularly during the high-demand winter season.

Uzbekistan's energy demand is projected to rise from 67 terawatt-hours in 2019 to 120.8 terawatt-hours by 2030. To meet this demand, the government plans to add 17 gigawatts of electricity generation capacity, including 8 gigawatts from renewable energy projects.

Additionally, the ADB project aims to bolster the financial management capabilities of the state distribution company, "Territorial Electric Networks" JSC (HET). Furthermore, a $250,000 technical assistance grant will be provided to promote gender mainstreaming at HET, encouraging the participation of women and girls in the energy sector through educational initiatives with Tashkent State Technical University.

The French Development Agency (FTA) will offer approximately $75 million in co-financing, partly managed by ADB. Since becoming an ADB member in 1995, Uzbekistan has received $10.8 billion in loans, grants, and technical assistance from the bank. Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from UzReport. For any query with respect to this article or any other content requirement, please contact Editor at contentservices@htlive.com