The announcement was made following a meeting held by Shavkat Mirziyoyev on January 28 to discuss measures for the development of the energy sector from 2025 to 2035.

Sherzod Khodjaev, Director of the Agency for the Development and Regulation of the Energy Market, discussed in an interview with "O’zbekiston 24" TV channel the directives to maximize the use of renewable energy sources, significantly reduce electricity production costs, and quickly integrate solar and wind energy into the grid.

Special attention was given to the issue of localization in the construction of new power plants, which entails using not only local products but also domestic engineering services. However, Khodjaev noted that Uzbekistan faces a shortage of qualified engineers, and as a result, a program to address this issue is under development.

To resolve the staffing gap, Khodjaev revealed that a new higher education institution focused on energy will be established to train engineering specialists through dual education. Graduates will also be regularly sent abroad for advanced training, ensuring that they can apply newly acquired skills upon their return.

"Starting in 2026, a competitive wholesale electricity market will be established. Trading will take place through a transparent electronic platform, where prices will be set every hour. To develop the technical specifications for the trading platform, we have engaged several international consultants, including the German company DNV and the American firm BCG. The electronic trading platform will gradually begin operations in 2026," said Sherzod Khodjaev.

In May 2024, the Cabinet of Ministers approved regulations for the Agency for the Development and Regulation of the Energy Market. The agency's responsibilities include the phased establishment of competitive wholesale and retail electricity markets. Beginning in 2026, it will be responsible for approving electricity supply tariffs and other related payments.

In December of last year, during a meeting with entrepreneurs, the President emphasized the need to transition to a competitive market model in the energy sector. He also announced the planned launch of the wholesale online electricity market in Uzbekistan in 2025.