ARKANSAS, Sept 26 (Future Headlines)- Tajikistan, a nation rich in hydropower resources, is setting its sights on becoming a major player in the green hydrogen industry. The country aims to produce 1 million metric tons of green hydrogen by 2040, with a focus on both domestic use and exports to neighboring Central Asian countries. Tajikistan’s Minister of Energy and Water Resources, Daler Juma, unveiled this ambitious plan while attending a Tokyo energy transition event.

Tajikistan’s energy landscape is currently dominated by hydropower, which accounts for nearly all of the nation’s electricity generation. However, the country heavily relies on oil product imports, primarily from Russia, to meet its energy needs. In response to this dependence and a growing awareness of the need for sustainable energy solutions, Tajikistan is charting a new course towards green hydrogen production.

Minister Daler Juma stated that Tajikistan intends to produce 1 million metric tons of green hydrogen by 2040. To achieve this ambitious goal, the country plans to have 10 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity in operation by 2030. The production of green hydrogen will play a pivotal role in this transition.

Tajikistan has set specific production milestones for green hydrogen in its roadmap. By 2030, the country aims to produce 500,000 tons of green hydrogen, with plans to double this figure by 2040. These targets are underpinned by the availability of “affordable, competitive electric power.” It is essential to note that Tajikistan’s focus extends beyond domestic consumption, as it intends to export a significant portion of its green hydrogen production to Central Asian countries that still rely on fossil fuels.

Tajikistan’s dominance in hydropower generation is a significant asset in its green hydrogen aspirations. Currently, around 4% of the nation’s hydropower potential is harnessed, according to the International Energy Agency. Given its ample hydropower resources, Tajikistan has a strong foundation for green hydrogen production.

However, the impact of climate change is a growing concern for Tajikistan. Melting glaciers, a consequence of rising global temperatures, threaten the stability of its hydropower resources. To mitigate this risk, Tajikistan aims to diversify its electricity sources. By 2030, the country intends to have 10% of its electricity generated from sources other than hydropower, including solar and wind.

While Tajikistan’s green hydrogen ambitions are commendable, the financial aspects of these plans remain undisclosed. Producing green hydrogen at scale involves significant investments in infrastructure, technology, and research and development. Securing financing and attracting investments will be pivotal in realizing the country’s vision.

Tajikistan’s commitment to green hydrogen production presents not only domestic benefits but also opportunities for the wider Central Asian region. Central Asian countries that rely on fossil fuels for energy generation can benefit from access to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. The export of green hydrogen to neighboring nations aligns with the global shift towards renewable energy and reduced carbon emissions.

As the nation progresses on this path, securing financial support and ensuring the feasibility of its green hydrogen plans will be critical steps in realizing its ambitious goals. Tajikistan’s journey towards green hydrogen serves as a testament to the transformative power of sustainable energy in addressing pressing global challenges.

Writing by Kevin Wood; Editing by Sarah White