Uzbekistan invests $1.3 billion in waste-to-energy projects

Uzbekistan is committing $1.3 billion to waste-to-energy projects, aiming to diversify its energy sources and improve waste management in partnership with international companies.

Uzbekistan is strengthening its energy infrastructure by investing $1.3 billion in waste-to-energy (WtE) projects. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at diversifying the country’s energy sources and improving solid waste management. By collaborating with international companies, the Uzbek government seeks to modernize its energy sector while addressing environmental challenges related to waste accumulation.

The waste-to-energy projects will process around 4.7 million metric tons of solid waste annually. This operation is expected to generate 2.1 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity by 2027. While this production represents a modest portion of Uzbekistan’s total annual energy production, which currently exceeds 70 billion kWh, it marks a significant step towards diversifying energy sources and improving waste management.

Partnerships with International Companies

To execute these projects, Uzbekistan is partnering with several renowned international companies. These include China CAMC Engineering Co. Ltd, a Chinese firm specializing in global infrastructure and energy projects; Shanghai SUS Environment, a Chinese company focusing on waste management and energy conversion; Tadweer Group from the United Arab Emirates, known for its recycling and waste processing expertise; and Sejin Heavy Industries from South Korea, which focuses on environmental technologies and waste-to-energy projects.

Environmental and Energy Impact

These waste-to-energy projects play a crucial role in Uzbekistan’s energy transition. By converting waste into electricity, the country aims to reduce its dependence on traditional fossil fuels and make strides in waste management. This approach contributes to building a more sustainable and autonomous energy system while reducing the environmental impact associated with landfills.

The establishment of these waste-to-energy plants will not only reduce landfill use but also generate electricity from materials that would otherwise be considered waste. This is especially important in the context of rapid urbanization and population growth in Uzbekistan, where pressure on waste management systems is increasing.