Masdar, also known as Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC, has achieved a significant milestone by generating the first power from its 500-MW Zarafshan wind farm project in central Uzbekistan. This marks Masdar's inaugural operational venture in the country and positions the utility-scale site as the largest wind farm in Central Asia, with expectations for full operational status by 2024.
Featuring 111 Goldwind turbines, the Zarafshan wind farm is strategically located in the Navoi region. Upon reaching full operational capacity, it is anticipated to generate sufficient power to meet the electricity demands of 500,000 homes while offsetting an estimated 1.1 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.
The commencement of operational activities was commemorated in an event presided over by Uzbekistan's Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov, alongside other government officials and representatives from Masdar.
Masdar had entered into a comprehensive agreement in June 2020, encompassing the design, financing, construction, and operation of the Zarafshan wind farm. The project successfully achieved financial close in August 2022, paving the way for its current operational status.
Earlier this year, Masdar further solidified its commitment to Uzbekistan's renewable energy landscape by signing an agreement with the government. The agreement outlines plans for the development of over 2 GW of solar and wind projects, accompanied by 500 MWh of battery energy storage across multiple sites in the country.
