The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will help Tajikistan create an auction mechanism for the construction of two major solar power plants with a capacity of approximately 200 MW each. This involves the preparation of projects with a total capacity of around 400 MW — one of the largest planned solar energy projects in the country.
In a document published on the EBRD website, it is stated that the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of Tajikistan has officially requested the bank’s support in developing a solar auction mechanism.
According to the bank’s document, the project’s objective is to prepare and conduct auctions for two solar photovoltaic projects with a capacity of approximately 200 MW each.
The EBRD will help review the necessary regulatory documents, develop a model for conducting competitive bidding, determine a risk allocation mechanism, and prepare conditions for attracting private investors.
The bank will also advise the authorities on creating a new electricity market operator or a “single buyer” model — a structure that could centrally purchase the generated electricity.
The work is divided into two stages. First, specialists will prepare proposals for energy sector reform and the structure of future auctions. After these decisions are agreed upon, it is planned to proceed with conducting competitions for the two solar projects.
It is important to note that this does not yet involve the start of construction of the power plants. At this stage, a mechanism is being prepared that should allow attracting investors and conducting a transparent selection of companies.
Why does Tajikistan need solar energy?
Today, hydroelectric power plants remain the foundation of Tajikistan’s energy sector. However, dependence on water creates seasonal risks: during the autumn-winter period, when water inflow decreases, the country faces an electricity deficit.
The development of solar generation is viewed as a way to complement hydropower and increase the resilience of the energy system.
EBRD analysts note that the development of large solar projects in Tajikistan is currently hindered by several factors: mountainous terrain, the condition of electrical grid infrastructure, difficulties in connecting new facilities, tariff policy issues, and the need to strengthen the legislative framework.
The EBRD document states that Tajikistan’s authorities plan to increase solar and wind energy capacity by 1.5–3 GW by 2030.
These plans are linked to energy independence objectives, climate goals, and the need to expand sources of electricity generation.
What has already been done?
Previously, Tajikistan reported on the development of renewable energy projects and the possibility of conducting auctions for large renewable energy facilities.
In July 2026, the government approved new rules for the supply of energy produced from renewable sources to the energy system and its sale to consumers. The document also provides conditions for the development of renewable energy projects.
Previously, “Asia-Plus” reported that the country would simplify the conditions for connecting solar panels and other renewable energy facilities to electrical grids.
Thus, the new project with EBRD support is not an announcement of the construction of two solar power plants, but rather the first concrete step toward creating a system through which investors will be able to participate in competitive auctions for the implementation of large solar energy projects in Tajikistan.
