Turkmenistan is actively developing international energy cooperation, focusing on a transition to clean energy sources. In partnership with the European Union, the country is implementing large-scale solar and wind energy projects, utilizing its abundant solar insolation and wind resources.

The European Union’s Global Gateway project plays a key role in the development of renewable energy in Turkmenistan. Through joint efforts, a digital database has been created to assess solar and wind resources, and methodologies have been developed to determine optimal locations for power plant installations.

Collaboration with the EU allows Turkmenistan not only to diversify its energy sector but also to contribute significantly to achieving global sustainable development goals. International energy cooperation, including the transition to clean energy, is a priority of Turkmenistan's economic policy, founded on principles of long-term vision, openness, consideration of national interests, and mutual responsibility.

Turkmenistan’s successful efforts in this direction are evidenced by its collaboration with the European Union in “green energy” and renewable sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower. Under current conditions, these sources have become not only a priority but also essential for sustainable development for Central Asian countries and nations worldwide.

Investments in renewable energy open new horizons for international cooperation. Turkmenistan and the EU are reliable partners in this process. The European Union fully supports the development of renewable energy in Turkmenistan, expanding cooperation through targeted initiatives. The EU’s Global Gateway economic project aims to invest in “green” energy projects. Through technical cooperation, Global Gateway works on implementing solar and wind energy projects and modernizing energy efficiency in existing infrastructure.

Turkmenistan’s vast desert regions hold significant potential for solar energy production, and the EU is investing in research to assess these opportunities and promote the green transition.

Thanks to international collaboration, a digital database has been established to assess solar and wind resources by region, laying the groundwork for determining the placement of solar and wind power plants. A methodology has been developed for the application of domestically-developed software.

The successful cooperation between Turkmenistan and the EU in this area is primarily based on long-term, proven partnerships across numerous projects and global initiatives. Partnership in “green” energy, especially in exploring alternative energy sources, aims to promote sustainable and inclusive growth, benefiting both Turkmenistan and the EU. By investing in “green” energy, digital connectivity, sustainable transport, and climate resilience, the Global Gateway project is helping the entire Central Asian region transition toward a more sustainable and interconnected future, while fostering deeper economic and geopolitical ties with Europe.

These projects not only transform infrastructure but also strengthen a global partnership based on shared values, transparency, and long-term growth.

The commitment to continued cooperation in “green” energy and other important areas was emphasized during meetings held this year, including a working visit of a Turkmen delegation to Brussels in March, where meetings with senior EU representatives took place.

Of particular note is the new project, "EU for Green Development in Turkmenistan: Policy Dialogue and Climate Action for 2024–2028." Officially launched in September of this year, the project is being implemented by GIZ and funded by the European Union and the German Foreign Ministry. It aims to support Turkmenistan’s actions in sustainable development by applying advanced international expertise and EU standards.

The success of Turkmenistan’s practical actions in alternative energy projects is demonstrated by the construction of a multifunctional 10-megawatt solar and wind power plant in the Kyzyl-Arvat district of the Balkan region, which over time will allow for increased electricity exports.

The importance of transitioning to renewable sources was also emphasized at the recent international forum, “Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan – 2024,” where plans were presented for the construction of new solar and wind power plants.

Source: “Nebit-Gaz” newspaper