Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov, Azərenerji OJSC, Minister of Economy of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic Kazim Huseynaliyev, Azerbaijan Renewable Energy Agency, “Azerbaijan Green Energy Company” (AGEC), CEI Nakhchivan LLC, Nobel Energy and Enerso LLC held a meeting at the Ministry of Energy.
The meeting highlighted that Nakhchivan is being developed in line with the strategic vision of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, regarding a green energy zone. Discussions covered measures undertaken in the Autonomous Republic to expand the use of renewable energy sources, establish modern grid infrastructure, and strengthen the energy system. The work carried out on the energy component of the Zangazur corridor, including the integration of energy systems and the electricity export prospects from Nakhchivan were considered. Cooperation with CEI Nakhchivan LLC and Enerso LLC in connection with the construction of 50 MW solar PV projects in Nakhchivan was assessed as an important stage in the green energy agenda of our country.
Minister Parviz Shahbazov stated: “The extensive application of renewable energy sources, aimed at strengthening the energy security of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, accelerating its sustainable socio-economic development, and transforming it into a regional energy production and export hub, is among the priority directions of the strategic course defined by the Head of State. Currently, renewable energy accounts for 44 percent of installed electricity generation capacity and 36.4 percent of electricity production in Nakhchivan. Shams 1 and Western Horizon solar PV projects, the first examples of private investment in the renewable energy sector in Nakhchivan, with a total investment value exceeding 60 million AZN, will make a significant contribution to the formation of a green development model in the region.
President of Azərenerji OJSC Baba Rzayev stressed the importance of solar power plants in terms of strengthening the sustainability of energy supply in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic and meeting the growing demand, especially in summer.
Minister of Economy of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic Kazim Huseynaliyev highly appreciated the role of these new projects in realizing the region’s substantial solar energy potential. It was noted that the new generation capacities to be established in Nakhchivan would stimulate economic development and contribute to electricity exports to neighboring countries and Europe in the future.
Deputy Chairman of the Management Board of AGEC Khayala Nagiyeva stated: "We believe that this initiative, implemented in partnership with state institutions, will contribute to growth of green investments in the region and creating long-term economic value. This project is a tangible result of public–private sector synergy. It will not only strengthen the region’s energy security but also support Azerbaijan’s strategic renewable energy objectives."
Chief Commercial Officer of Nobel Energy Eldar Mammadzadeh said: "We are proud to align with the Green Zone initiative in Nakhchivan, reinforcing our commitment to renewable energy integration through the development of solar power plants. Nobel Energy remains dedicated to driving this transition, delivering essential infrastructure that will foster long-term sustainable economic growth across the region."
At the end, an Investment Agreement, a Power Purchase Agreement, and a Grid Connection Agreement were signed between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Azərenerji OJSC, and CEI Nakhchivan LLC for the 25 MW Shams 1 Solar PV project in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. Additionally, an Investment Agreement, a Power Purchase Agreement, and a Grid Connection Agreement were signed between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Azərenerji OJSC, and Enerso LLC for the 25 MW Western Horizon Solar PV project. The investment agreements on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan were signed by Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov, while the Power Purchase and Grid Connection Agreements were signed by President of Azərenerji OJSC Baba Rzayev.
As a result of the implementation of these projects, total annual electricity generation of 122 million kWh is expected, enabling savings of 26 million cubic meters of natural gas and a reduction of 57,000 tons of carbon emissions.
