4.5 GW of green power plants set to launch in the next 5 years

The document also outlines measures to promote the "green" economy and energy sector. Reducing the carbon footprint through energy efficiency and the implementation of renewable energy sources are identified as key priorities for development.

The goal is to increase the share of renewable energy in electricity generation to 26% and in the overall energy generation capacity to 40%. To achieve this, it is planned to launch solar and wind power plants with a total capacity of 4.5 GW (up from 3.5 GW in the draft decree), install photovoltaic panels with a capacity of 785 MW, and build hydropower plants with a capacity of 225 MW (up from 160 MW in the draft).

However, the final version of the decree omits the goal of attracting $10 million from the sale of carbon credits. The section on "green development" programs for tourist cities has also been removed.

To accelerate the adoption of renewable energy, "green" tariffs for electricity generated from solar and wind energy will be introduced starting April 1. Preferential tariffs will also apply to energy produced by enterprises using biogas and waste for energy generation.

The program also plans to implement the practice of forming and publishing ESG reports at least at five large industrial enterprises. The goal is to ensure that companies such as Uzbekistan Airways, Uzbekistan Airports, Uzneftegaz, AMMC, and NMMC achieve ESG ratings.

In the Samarkand and Fergana regions, the creation of pilot industrial zones focused on producing environmentally friendly products has been instructed.

Another change compared to the draft decree concerns the minimum proportion of "green" components in regional and sectoral investment programs. Starting this year, these components must account for at least 15% (up from 10% in the draft), rising to 30% by 2027 (from 25%), and at least 55% by 2030 (up from 50%).

At the regional level, there is an emphasis on attracting consultants for environmental and "green" development issues. Starting September 1, the president has instructed the development of environmental passports and ecological master plans for districts and cities, as well as the introduction of an environmental rating for regions.