Tajikistan Seeks Bids for 200 MW Solar Power Plant

Tajikistan’s Ministry of Energy and Water Resources is currently seeking bids for the construction of a 200 MW solar power plant. The deadline for submissions has been extended to November 12, 2024, as the ministry looks for qualified companies to participate in the tender process.

The selected contractor will be responsible for the design, construction, financing, operation, and maintenance of the solar facility. The winning bidder will also sign a power purchase agreement with OJSC Barqi Tojik, the state-owned operator of the electricity market in Tajikistan.

The solar plant is planned for the Sughd region, located near Tajikistan's western border with Uzbekistan. The nearest utility-scale solar project is the 263 MW Buka project, around 37 km away, which is being developed by China Datang Overseas Investment Co. Ltd. after receiving approval in May.

In an effort to bolster renewable energy, the Tajik government has launched a program aimed at achieving over 1 GW of solar capacity by 2030. Earlier this year, the Chinese developer Eging PV Technology also announced plans for a 200 MW solar power station in the southwestern part of the country.

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Tajikistan had no installed solar capacity at the end of 2023, underscoring the significance of these initiatives in advancing the nation's renewable energy goals.