BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 9. The European Union
and Uzbekistan already cooperate closely on strengthening regional
energy connectivity to enhance the security of electricity supply
and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources,
including wind and solar, into the power grid, Ambassador of the
European Union to Uzbekistan Toivo Klaar told Trend.

“This cooperation is being implemented through regional
initiatives such as the Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central
Asia (SECCA) program, as well as support for energy-related
investments,” he said.

Klaar recalled that in October, the European Union, together
with its partners, announced new investments in hydropower
infrastructure across Central Asia.

“In particular, the Kambarata-1 hydropower plant project in
Kyrgyzstan has marked significant progress, with memoranda of
understanding totaling €900 million signed between the European
Union, the European Investment Bank, and Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan,
and Uzbekistan,” he noted.

He added that the Rogun hydropower plant in Tajikistan
represents another strategically important project for the entire
Central Asian region.

“This project could double Tajikistan’s energy production by
2032, help address domestic electricity shortages, advance regional
decarbonization efforts, and enable electricity exports. The
European Union and several international donors are jointly
building a sustainable foundation for its implementation,” Klaar
said.

According to him, another key initiative is the Central
Asia–South Asia power transmission project, commonly known as
CASA-1000, which looks to bring in surplus electricity from Central
Asia to high-demand markets in South Asia.

“This ambitious grid interconnection project could transmit up
to 1,300 megawatts of electricity. All participating regions stand
to benefit through improved grid stability and enhanced energy
security for electricity consumers. The European Investment Bank is
among the institutions providing financing for this project,” Klaar
added.

The Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)
program is a 6.8 million euro EU initiative (2022-2026) aimed at
promoting sustainable energy in Central Asia by enhancing energy
efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). It focuses on developing
national policies, capacity building, investment improvement, and
regional cooperation to create reliable and affordable energy
systems across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan,
and Uzbekistan.

The program emphasizes gender-responsive approaches, training
for local professionals, public awareness, and cross-border trade
in energy. Its impact includes creating a more inclusive energy
supply, addressing climate change through sustainable sources, and
empowering local institutions with relevant expertise.