Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan have Agreed on the Transfer of Renewable Energy Across the Caspian Sea

Presidents Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, and Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan reached an accord to jointly develop and transmit green energy to Europe through underwater cables laid beneath the Caspian and Black Seas. This agreement marks a new phase in regional cooperation across Central Asia and the Caucasus, aimed at creating a sustainable “green energy corridor.”

Objectives of the Agreement and Key Provisions

1. Establishing a Strategic Partnership in Green Energy: The agreement formalizes the commitment of the three nations to develop clean energy and build the infrastructure necessary for its export. Renewable sources like solar and wind energy are prioritized, in alignment with global climate action commitments.
2. Energy Corridor to Europe: A core element of the project is the construction of underwater cables across the Caspian and Black Seas, which will transmit electricity to Europe. This corridor will link Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe, creating a unique transit route for green energy supply and ensuring Europe has access to sustainable energy sources.
3. Expanded Cooperation with Saudi Arabia: As part of the agreement, close collaboration with Saudi Arabia and its leading energy company ACWA Power is planned. ACWA Power is already investing significantly in renewable energy development across the region. Following the signing of the primary agreements, an “Implementation Program” was signed between the energy ministries of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Saudi Arabia to strengthen ties and coordinate efforts in green energy projects.

Statements from Leaders

Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan, noted that the agreement elevates cooperation between the countries to a new level, emphasizing the brotherly ties among Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. He highlighted the importance of integration processes, including the development of transport and energy links, which support synchronized efforts in achieving energy security and sustainability.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kazakhstan, emphasized that the agreement represents a key stage in creating a green energy bridge—the Middle Corridor, linking regional economies. For Kazakhstan, which is pursuing carbon neutrality, green energy is a priority. The country is actively developing renewable sources and has secured agreements with foreign partners for projects with a total capacity of 43 gigawatts, aiming to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of Uzbekistan, underscored the importance of green energy not only for the economy but also for future generations. He outlined Uzbekistan’s plans to increase the share of renewable energy to 40% by 2030 and noted that this project contributes to the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals. Mirziyoyev also stated that the project will yield significant economic benefits for all participating countries, including job creation and the strengthening of energy infrastructure.

Significance of the Project for the Region and Europe

This agreement represents more than just an energy partnership. It reflects the commitment of Central Asia and the Caucasus to enhance their roles in the global energy transition. The creation of a new energy corridor that connects several major regions is an important step toward carbon neutrality. This will help reduce Europe’s dependence on fossil fuels by providing access to sustainable energy sources, ensuring long-term energy security.

Technical and Economic Advantages

1. Technical Infrastructure: The project will require the development of complex underwater infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted electricity transmission over long distances. The construction of the underwater cable across the Caspian Sea will create the world’s first interregional underwater energy bridge, connecting Central Asia and Europe.
2. Economic Impact: The project’s implementation will create thousands of new jobs, increase investment, and significantly strengthen the region’s economy. As part of the partnership, facilities for green energy generation and storage will be established, helping countries reduce their reliance on carbon-intensive energy sources.
3. Impact on Sustainable Development: Transitioning to renewable energy will improve the environmental landscape, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and help achieve sustainable development goals, benefiting not only the participating countries but also Europe, which will receive clean energy.

While the project holds great promise, it faces challenges such as financing, the alignment of international standards and technologies, and the complexity of creating a sustainable and reliable energy network. In the next phase, the countries will need to finalize the project’s feasibility study, coordinate funding sources, and expedite tender procedures.