ACWA Power Starts Construction on Uzbekistan's Green Hydrogen Project

ACWA Power, a prominent player in private water desalination on a global scale and a trailblazer in the energy transition sector, has embarked on a transformative journey with the initiation of the initial phase of a groundbreaking green hydrogen project in Uzbekistan. This visionary endeavor, boasting an impressive capacity of 3,000 tonnes per year, represents a significant milestone in the intersection of sustainable energy and innovative technology.

The inaugural event, held to mark the commencement of this pioneering initiative, witnessed the esteemed presence of Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the President of Uzbekistan, and His Excellency Khalid Al Falih, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Investment. Among the distinguished attendees were Prime Minister Abdulla Nigmatovich Aripov, representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the governor of the Syrdarya region, Uztransgaz Chairman, and the driving force behind ACWA Power, Mr. Mohammad Abunayyan, who serves as its Founder and Chairman.

Expressing profound honor and enthusiasm, Mohammad Abunayyan emphasized the pivotal role of leading Uzbekistan's inaugural green hydrogen project in the country's energy evolution. He extended gratitude to all contributors and reiterated ACWA Power's commitment to ongoing collaboration and sustained investment in Uzbekistan's journey toward a sustainable future.

The green hydrogen project unfolds in two strategically planned phases, each contributing to the overarching goal of establishing a robust and environmentally friendly energy infrastructure. The current first phase involves the implementation of a 3,000-tonne green ammonia pilot project, a testament to the ambition and commitment of ACWA Power. This phase commenced subsequent to the signing of crucial hydrogen purchase and power purchase agreements in May 2023.

Looking beyond the initial phase, the project's second stage aims to harness the power of 2.4 gigawatts (GW) of wind energy. This substantial capacity will be directed toward facilitating the annual production of an impressive 500,000 tonnes of green ammonia. This ambitious undertaking not only underscores ACWA Power's commitment to cutting-edge renewable energy solutions but also positions Uzbekistan as a key player in the global green hydrogen landscape.

The significance of this venture is underscored by its position as ACWA Power's second large-scale green hydrogen initiative, building upon the success of the NEOM Green Hydrogen Project in Saudi Arabia. The latter project, a collaborative effort involving ACWA Power, NEOM, and Air Products, has already made substantial strides in redefining the possibilities and applications of green hydrogen.

Uzbekistan holds a pivotal role in ACWA Power's investment strategy, standing as the company's second-largest market for investment. The portfolio in Uzbekistan is both diverse and expansive, encompassing 12 projects primarily concentrated in the renewable energy sector. This robust presence reflects ACWA Power's unwavering dedication to shaping and influencing Uzbekistan's energy landscape positively.