Uzbekistan's Samarkand region is now home to a 131 MWDC/100 MW AC solar power plant after French renewable energy company Total Eren commissioned Tutly PV project as one of the country's 1st independent power producers (IPP) projects.
Total Eren says this is its 1st project to exclusively use bifacial solar PV modules, and also the company's maiden PV facility to have come online in the country.
"Despite many unexpected challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the increase in solar module prices and transportation costs, we are proud to have delivered on our commitment today," said Executive Vice-President and head of Business Development of Total Eren, Fabienne Demol.
The project is designed to generate around 270 GWh annually that's contracted under a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) to supply the same to the National Electric Networks of Uzbekistan. EPC contractor of the facility that's backed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), European Investment bank (EIB) and Proparco, was METKA EGN (see International Lenders Back 100 MW Uzbek Solar Project).
Total Eren says it will build more wind and solar projects in Uzbekistan and Central Asia at large.
Uzbekistan targets to install 7 GW solar and 5 GW wind energy capacity by 2030 to meet 25% electricity generation from renewable sources of energy, as it seeks to diversify its electricity mix that's currently dominated by thermal power plants.