In the Namangan region of Uzbekistan, the implementation of a large-scale energy project – construction of a cascade of Naryn hydroelectric power stations is in full swing. This ambitious project, launched thanks to the initiative of the head of state, marks a new stage in the development of the country’s energy independence and is the first national project in the history of Uzbekistan in the field of hydropower, carried out entirely at the expense of internal resources and capabilities, the TV channel reports «Uzbekistan 24».
Recently, the next stage of construction of this strategically important facility began, the total design capacity of which will be 228 MW. The project is being implemented in accordance with the resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated March 30, 2023 «On further measures to reform the hydropower sector», which provides for the construction of a cascade of Naryn hydroelectric power stations in the Namangan region in the period from 2024 to 2030. The total cost of the megaproject is estimated at US$428.5 million, and its full completion is scheduled for 2028.
The Naryn River, which originates in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan and flows through the Fergana Valley, is of vital importance for the region, being not only a source of water for irrigation, but also having a rich history. In the past, its shores served as a place for fishing and recreation for the local population. Today, the mighty river is intended to become a source of «green» energy for thousands of residents of the Namangan region.
Construction work on the site is being carried out at an intensive pace. Already in March 2024, during the President’s visit to Namangan, this grandiose undertaking was launched. It is noteworthy that more than 300 residents from nearby mahallas, such as «Yangi er», «Yangi gayot», «Dustlik» and «Ziyokor», are involved in the construction, which contributes to the creation of new jobs in the region.
The Naryn hydroelectric power station cascade will consist of six hydroelectric power stations, each with a capacity of 38 MW. According to the head of the hydroelectric power station, Abdumazhid Abdugoibov, at the first stage it is planned to commission four hydraulic units with a total capacity of 38 MW by September of this year, by the Independence Day of Uzbekistan. This will provide electricity to about 30 thousand households. All generated energy will be supplied to the 220/110 kV outdoor switchgear substation and then distributed between the «Yulduz» and «Kizilravot» substations for subsequent supply to the population.
As reported in the report, we are especially proud of the fact that during the construction of the Naryn hydroelectric power station, hydraulic units produced in Uzbekistan are used, as well as local construction materials and labor resources. This highlights the country’s growing industrial and technological potential. Liu Li Yong, a Chinese design engineer, noted that this is a large government project developed by the Tashkent Design Institute in collaboration with Chinese specialists, and work is moving very quickly.
It is expected that after full commissioning, the Naryn hydroelectric power station cascade will generate 1025 million kWh of electricity annually. This volume will be enough to meet the needs of 430 thousand households. In addition, the project will save 277 million cubic meters of natural gas annually and create more than 130 permanent jobs.
