Azerbaijan to partner with UAE in constructing solar and wind energy plants

Azerbaijan and UAE Collaborate on Green Energy Projects

The recent meeting between Azerbaijan’s Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov and a delegation from the UAE, led by Chairman of the Masdar Board and Minister of Industry Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, has paved the way for significant advancements in the development of green energy in the region. The discussions focused on onshore and offshore projects, as well as cooperation plans within the framework of COP29, highlighting both countries’ commitment to transitioning to a sustainable energy future.

One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the investment agreement between the Ministry of Energy, OAO Azerenerji, and Masdar on the construction of solar and wind power plants in Azerbaijan. This agreement outlines plans for the construction of the Bilasuvar Solar Power Plant with a capacity of 445 MW, the Neftchala Solar Power Plant with a capacity of 315 MW, and the Absheron-Garadag Wind Power Plant with a capacity of 240 MW.

However, challenges remain in integrating additional electricity into the national grid due to insufficient network infrastructure. To address this issue, a 1-gigawatt high-voltage transmission cable is being laid from the Caspian Sea to the Black Sea and Europe, creating a green corridor for renewable energy.

Economic expert Azer Badamov commented on the significance of these developments, noting that the use of wind and solar power introduces innovations in electricity production. He emphasized the importance of forming an export market for the new production capacities, highlighting the Green Cable project as a strategic initiative to export Azerbaijan’s green energy to European markets.

In terms of offshore wind energy, Azerbaijan’s potential is estimated at 157 gigawatts, presenting significant opportunities for renewable energy production. Badamov expressed optimism about the prospects for offshore wind farms, citing the country’s advantageous wind activity on land and at sea.

Azerbaijan’s commitment to reducing CO2 emissions by 35% by 2030 and 40% by mid-century aligns with its focus on sustainable development. The development of offshore wind energy is seen as a key factor in achieving these goals, with ACWA Power CEO Selim Guven highlighting the potential for producing green hydrogen and electricity from offshore wind resources.

The Trans-Caspian Energy Corridor, connecting Central Asia and Europe, is also a promising project for developing renewable energy sources in the Caspian countries and balancing long-distance energy supply and demand.

Overall, the collaboration between Azerbaijan and the UAE in the field of green energy is expected to not only contribute to the production of clean energy but also to the sustainable development of the region and the achievement of global climate goals. The partnership signifies a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future for both countries and the wider region.