Masdar Partners With Uzbekistan To Develop Largest Standalone Battery Energy Storage Project

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC, known as Masdar, has partnered with JSC Uzenergosotish to develop Uzbekistan's largest standalone battery energy storage system (BESS). This project marks the first phase of a national initiative following Masdar's agreement in December 2023 with Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Energy and Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade. The plan is to establish up to 575 megawatts (MW) / 1.15 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of BESS capacity across the country.

The initial phase will store up to 300MW / 600MWh of electricity, enough to power around 1.3 million homes for two hours. It will connect to the Murunau Substation, with a second phase extending the Zarafshan facility by another 300MW / 600MWh. The Zarafshan BESS is expected to be operational by Q3 2028, enhancing Uzbekistan’s grid reliability and flexibility while supporting its renewable energy goals.

The agreement was signed by Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, and Jahongir Obidjonov, Chairman of JSC Uzenergosotish. Suhail Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, and Jurabek Mirzamahmudov, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Energy, witnessed the signing. Al Mazrouei expressed pride in Masdar's role in global clean energy efforts, stating that the Zarafshan BESS will bolster Uzbekistan’s grid resilience and renewable integration.

Al Mazrouei remarked on the collaboration: "The UAE is proud to see its global clean energy leader, Masdar, supporting our partners around the world in accelerating their energy transformations." He emphasized that this project aligns with both nations' visions for sustainable energy futures. Mirzamahmudov highlighted the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and the UAE, noting significant advancements in 'green' energy projects through this cooperation.

In recent years, partnerships with UAE companies have led to significant developments in Uzbekistan's renewable sector. These include five solar power plants totaling 1,247MW capacity and a wind power plant with a capacity of 500MW. Additionally, a 63MW energy storage system has been commissioned alongside ongoing construction of a 300MW solar photovoltaic plant.

This collaboration has paved the way for another major project: an accelerated implementation of a 300MW/600MWh energy storage system. This initiative aims to integrate large-scale renewable sources into Uzbekistan’s grid effectively. Al Ramahi noted that this project is a milestone for Uzbekistan’s energy transformation and showcases Masdar's expertise in global battery storage projects.

Masdar's Growing Presence

Masdar continues to expand its footprint in Uzbekistan with approximately 2GW of clean energy capacity already established and investments exceeding US$2 billion. The company plans to develop an additional 2GW of clean energy capacity while extending the Zarafshan BESS by another 300MW / 600MWh. These efforts support Uzbekistan’s target of reaching 20GW of renewables by 2030.

Masdar is also advancing large-scale energy storage innovation globally. In October, it initiated construction on the world’s first gigascale solar and battery storage project in Abu Dhabi. This project features a 5.2GW solar plant integrated with a 19GWh BESS to deliver continuous baseload renewable power upon completion.

Obidjonov expressed satisfaction with launching another major project alongside Masdar: "We are very pleased to launch another major project in cooperation with Masdar. This initiative will make a significant contribution to achieving Uzbekistan’s ambitious goals for the transition to green energy."

The Zarafshan BESS adds significantly to Masdar's current projects in Uzbekistan while aligning with its global ambition of achieving 100GW by 2030. This collaboration underscores strong ties between both nations committed to advancing practical solutions for global energy security and decarbonisation.

With inputs from WAM