Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On February 19, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a presentation on measures to enhance energy efficiency.

This issue was initially raised during a meeting on the development of the power sector held on 28 January, where the head of state instructed the preparation of relevant proposals.

Uzbekistan's energy infrastructure is evolving in response to the growing demands of both the population and the economy. In 2023, the country produced 50 billion cubic meters of natural gas and 81 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity. According to forecasts, electricity consumption is expected to increase 1.7 times by 2035, necessitating not only an expansion of production but also the efficient use of available resources.

Analysis shows that Uzbekistan consumes 2.5 times more energy per dollar of GDP than the global average. Additionally, electricity losses in the grid reach 14%, while losses of natural gas exceed 7%.

In light of this, a scientific study on potential energy-saving measures is underway, involving leading experts. Research conducted across seven regions has identified reserves that could enable annual savings of 4.6 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity and 1 billion cubic meters of natural gas.

Based on these findings, concrete proposals have been developed. For instance, modernizing pump equipment in the water management system could reduce electricity consumption by 1 billion kilowatt-hours per year. Additionally, upgrading boiler systems and utilizing renewable energy sources in social institutions are expected to save 5 million cubic meters of gas and 15 million kilowatt-hours of electricity in 2024 alone.

Overall, this year’s plan aims to reduce natural gas consumption by 1.6 billion cubic meters and electricity consumption by 3.5 billion kilowatt-hours. To achieve this, every enterprise and organization will receive scientifically grounded recommendations on improving energy efficiency.

For industrial enterprises, energy consumption standards per unit of production will be introduced, which is expected to lower costs by 5–10%. Furthermore, a program will be developed to equip social sector facilities with energy-saving technology.

A particular focus has been placed on enhancing energy efficiency in residential housing. Measures to improve the thermal insulation of apartment buildings will be expanded, and citizens will be offered preferential loans for installing solar panels and solar collectors. Additionally, an educational program on energy conservation will be introduced, drawing on Japanese expertise.

The president emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to energy conservation across all sectors—from industry to housing. Specific instructions were given to reduce energy losses, prevent theft and misuse of resources, and strengthen oversight of energy consumption efficiency at the regional level.