China to build 500 MW solar power plant in Uzbekistan

Chinese consortium to invest over $280 million in Forish solar project as Uzbekistan fast-tracks green energy transition

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV) — A consortium of Chinese companies will build a 500-megawatt solar photovoltaic power plant in Uzbekistan, marking another step in the country’s rapid push toward renewable energy and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.

The project, authorized by a presidential decree, includes the development of both the solar plant and a new overhead transmission network in the Forish district, located in central Uzbekistan’s Jizzakh region. 

According to independent outlet Daryo News, the initiative is part of Uzbekistan’s broader “green economy” strategy, designed to modernize energy infrastructure and diversify supply.

The plant will be developed by Huadian Jizzakh Solar Power, a joint venture between China Electrical Equipment International and China Huadian Overseas. 

The total direct investment for the project is estimated at 2.08 billion Chinese yuan ($286 million).

Under the agreement, the Chinese investors will design, finance, construct, and operate the facility. 

In return, Uzbekistan’s national power company, Uzenergosotish, will purchase the generated electricity on a guaranteed 25-year contract, offering revenue security to the investors.

To facilitate construction, 991.1 hectares of pasture land in Forish will be reclassified from agricultural to industrial use.

This announcement follows the signing of several green energy agreements at the inaugural Samarkand International Climate Forum in April 2025. 

Among them was a separate deal with China’s Liquip International to build another 500-megawatt solar plant in the same region.

Uzbekistan’s electricity production has grown by 30% over the past five years, reaching 81.5 billion kilowatt-hours. 

The government also aims to establish 1,185 micro hydropower stations by 2025, with a combined capacity of 65 megawatts.