Azerbaijan plans to increase share of renewables in its energy system 33% by 2028

BAKU. Nov 22 (Interfax) - Azerbaijan plans to commission 1,870 MW of green energy capacity by 2028, bringing the share of renewable sources in its energy system to 33%, the country's Deputy Energy Minister Samir Valiyev said at an economic forum in Baku on Wednesday.

Currently, the capacity of the Azerbaijani energy system due to renewable energy sources is estimated at 1688 MW, with renewables having a 20% share, he said.

A 240 MW wind power plant is planned for launch in 2025, Valiyev said. In addition, in the coming years there are plans to build a solar power plant in the Neftchala region with a capacity of 315 MW; a solar power plant in the Bilasuvar region with a capacity of 445 MW; and a wind farm in the Qaradagh region with a capacity of 240 MW. Additional renewable energy projects are planned as well.

The deputy minister, citing preliminary studies by Japanese energy company TEPSCO (Tokyo Electric Power Services Co., Ltd), clarified that significant potential in the field of alternative energy exists in Azerbaijan's Karabakh and East Zangezur economic regions. In particular, the potential for solar energy in the Gubadli, Zangilan, Jabrayil, and Fizuli regions is estimated at more than 7,200 MW, while wind energy in the Lachin and Kalbajar regions could reach approximately 2,000 MW.