Masdar Collaborates with Uzbekistan on Major Battery Storage Initiative

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Abu Dhabi’s Masdar has joined forces with Uzbekistan's JSC Uzenergosotish to develop the country’s largest battery storage project. The Zarafshan Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) represents a significant advancement in Uzbekistan's journey towards renewable energy adaptation.

The initial stage of the project will provide a robust 300MW / 600MWh capacity, which can supply electricity for about 1.3 million homes for a duration of two hours. This phase will link to the Murunau Substation, with plans for a second phase of similar capacity aimed at bolstering the project’s capabilities. The anticipated operational date is set for the third quarter of 2028.

As part of a comprehensive national strategy, the Zarafshan BESS follows a December 2023 pact between Masdar and Uzbekistan’s energy authorities to explore solutions for up to 575MW / 1.15GWh of battery storage nationwide. This initiative aims to enhance grid robustness, facilitate renewable energy integration, and support the goal of achieving 54% renewable electricity by 2030.

In recent years, Uzbekistan has expanded its renewable energy endeavors in partnership with Masdar, commissioning five solar plants with a combined capacity of 1,247MW, one 500MW wind farm, and a 63MW energy storage system. A 300MW solar photovoltaic facility is also under construction. The Zarafshan BESS is set to further this clean energy integration.

With investments exceeding $2 billion, Masdar has established a strong presence in Uzbekistan, amounting to approximately 2GW of clean energy projects. The company's future plans indicate an aim to surpass 2GW more, including the expansion of Zarafshan by an additional 300MW / 600MWh, thereby aiding Uzbekistan’s target of reaching 20GW of renewables by 2030 while contributing to Masdar’s 100GW global aspiration.

This project epitomizes the rising trend of international partnerships in clean energy, aligning with Uzbekistan’s ambitions and Masdar's expanding global battery storage expertise. The Zarafshan BESS is poised to enhance immediate grid flexibility while paving the way for a sustainable energy paradigm in Central Asia.