Tajikistan is continuing efforts to diversify its energy sector through the development of renewable energy sources, with construction underway on two solar power plants with a combined capacity of 500 megawatts, Minister of Energy and Water Resources Daler Juma said.

Juma made the remarks during a panel discussion titled “Ensuring Progress: Developing Integrated Energy and Water Resources Systems for Common Benefits,” held on the sidelines of the Development Forum of the OPEC Fund for International Development in Vienna, according to the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of Tajikistan.

The minister said that alongside the use of large hydropower resources, Tajikistan is paying special attention to the development of renewable energy sources and is moving toward achieving energy independence.

During the discussion, Juma outlined the main directions of the country’s energy sector development, the process of regional energy integration and issues related to water resources management.

He noted that Tajikistan is in the final stage of full integration into the unified energy system of Central Asia, adding that the initiative could contribute to strengthening regional energy security and expanding cooperation among countries in the region.

Addressing water resources and climate change, Juma said that about 60% of Central Asia’s water resources are formed within Tajikistan’s territory. He also highlighted the impact of rapid glacier melting on the sustainability of water resources and stressed the need for stronger international cooperation in sustainable water management.