Why should Tajikistan invest in hydropower?

Tajikistan’s geographic proximity to some of the world’s fastest-growing energy markets means that investing in developing its hydropower potential can contribute to regional energy security and the clean energy transition, in addition to addressing Tajikistan’s high vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters.

Is Tajikistan moving its energy sector towards more reliability?

With an aging electricity supply that relies almost entirely on one source of power generation, hydropower, Tajikistan has a uniquely unstable power supply that has caused energy shortages and rolling blackouts for decades. Now, Tajikistan appears to be moving its energy sector towards greater reliability and sustainability.

Does Tajikistan have a hydro power plant?

With abundant water potential from its rivers, natural lakes and glaciers, Tajikistan is almost exclusively reliant on hydro for electricity generation. It is home to some of the world’s largest hydropower plants and is ranked eighth in the world for hydropower potential with an estimated 527 terawatt-hours (TWh).

Should Tajikistan import electricity?

While exports are the prime motivation of Tajikistan to pursue cross-border electricity trade in order to gain revenue, the option to import electricity in times of shortage should be open. Imports could also delay or avoid the need to build new thermal generation capacity.

Does Tajikistan have a power sector?

The power sector is considered a strategic industry for Tajikistan. In 2016, it launched the National Development Strategy 2030 which includes a goal to become energy independent. The strategy’s primary aims are summarised as “10-10-10-10-500”, which is shorthand for: Increasing installed capacity by 10 GW. Reducing technical grid losses by 10%.

Does Tajikistan have thermal power?

It has relatively little thermal generation. In 2019, 93% of its generation was from hydro and 7% was from coal-fired capacity. Tajikistan has limited sources for heating other than electricity which accentuates winter peak demand and deficits. IEA. Licence: CC BY 4.0 IEA. Licence: CC BY 4.0