Electricity in Uzbekistan in 2023
In 2023, electricity consumption in Uzbekistan primarily relies on fossil fuels, with gas representing a substantial portion of this. Overall, fossil energy contributes to more than 85% of the electricity mix, with gas alone making up about 78%. Coal contributes a modest share, around 7%. On the low-carbon front, the contribution is a noticeably smaller fraction, with hydropower accounting for just over 8%. Net imports add a marginal amount to the energy supply. This composition reflects a pressing need to diversify energy sources, focusing on increasing the low-carbon share to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and their associated environmental impacts.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, Energy Institute and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Uzbekistan?
Electricity consumption per person in Uzbekistan in 2023 is substantially less than it was in 1987, indicating a decline in electricity usage over the years. The current consumption stands at 2221 kWh per person, a decrease of 672 kWh from the historical high of 2892 kWh in 1987. Similarly, the low-carbon electricity generation per person is significantly lower than its past peak, with current rates at 198 kWh per person compared to 368 kWh in 1988. This noticeable downturn suggests stagnation in electricity growth, which is essential to address for meeting future demands driven by electrification and technological progress.
Suggestions
To elevate its low-carbon electricity share, Uzbekistan can draw inspiration from countries that have succeeded in significantly integrating nuclear and solar energy. France and Slovakia provide compelling examples, with nuclear power delivering 70% and 66% of their electricity, respectively. In terms of wind energy, Denmark and Iowa stand out, with around 60% of electricity from wind. Additionally, countries like Armenia and Lebanon, with a 33% and 31% reliance on nuclear and solar energy respectively, illustrate the potential gains from adopting solar energy strategies that can be tailored to Uzbekistan's geographic and economic contexts. Emphasizing nuclear and solar energy could help establish a more stable and sustainable electricity grid, reducing emissions and fostering energy independence.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Uzbekistan has predominantly been driven by hydropower. Notable increases in hydropower generation were seen, such as the early 1990s and mid-2000s, with annual increases of around 1 to 2 TWh. However, this was interspersed with periods of decline, particularly marked in the early 2000s when there was a notable drop, and again in the late 2000s and early 2010s. These fluctuations underscore the need for a more diversified low-carbon strategy, as relying heavily on hydropower has resulted in inconsistent progress. Given this history, Uzbekistan stands at a crossroads where adopting a mix of nuclear and solar can stabilize and enhance its clean electricity generation, ensuring a sustainable energy future.
