Voltalia Celebrates First Power Delivery from Sarimay Solar Plant
Voltalia, a prominent player in the renewable energy sector, has reached a remarkable milestone by delivering the first megawatt-hours from its 126-megawatt solar power plant, Sarimay, located in Uzbekistan. This achievement highlights the company’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and marks an important step towards the plant's full operational capacity.
Significance of the Sarimay Solar Project
The Sarimay Solar project was awarded through a public tender, and with a supportive 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA), the facility is set to transform local energy production. Covering an area of 180 hectares, the project boasts of over 180,000 bifacial solar panels and approximately 350 inverters, all connected by a three-kilometer transmission line. When fully operational, the plant will produce around 252 gigawatt-hours of clean energy annually—a substantial amount to power about 60,000 homes—and will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 140,000 tons per year.
Financing and Development
Financed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Fund for Sustainable Development Plus, Voltalia has spearheaded the project from its initial conception through to engineering, construction oversight, and future operations, which will include scheduled maintenance after the facility becomes operational.
Environmental and Community Impact
Emphasizing environmental stewardship, the Sarimay project is also focused on enhancing local ecosystems through initiatives such as planting 2.65 million Haloxylon persicum shrubs. Alongside ecological restoration, Voltalia actively supports surrounding communities, including local schools, to foster education and skills development. During peak construction, the project generated significant local employment, utilizing 776 workers, 85% of whom were locals. Adhering to strict Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) standards ensured a safe working environment throughout the process.
Future Developments in Uzbekistan
Building on the success of Sarimay, Voltalia is set to develop another major project in Uzbekistan named Artemisya, which will encompass a 500-hectare hybrid energy complex. The first phase of this ambitious project aims to add 100 megawatts of wind energy and 200 megawatt-hours of storage capacity, with construction expected to commence shortly. Commissioning of Artemisya is projected for late 2027. Together, these projects will significantly enhance Uzbekistan's renewable energy landscape.
CEO’s Vision for Renewable Energy
Robert Klein, CEO of Voltalia, expressed enthusiasm about reaching this significant benchmark. He remarked, 'The first megawatt-hours from Sarimay marks a major achievement for Voltalia in Central Asia. Successfully completing this 126-megawatt solar project showcases our ability to deliver large-scale renewable solutions that promote environmental and social welfare. We eagerly anticipate advancing this momentum with the Artemisya project, further bolstering Uzbekistan's commitment to renewable energy and its transition goals for 2030.'
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the Sarimay Solar plant?
The Sarimay Solar plant has a total capacity of 126 megawatts, designed to deliver substantial clean energy to local communities.
How much energy will the plant produce annually?
Once fully operational, the plant is expected to generate around 252 gigawatt-hours of energy each year.
What are the environmental initiatives associated with Sarimay?
The project includes planting 2.65 million Haloxylon persicum shrubs to help restore local ecosystems and support environmental sustainability.
When is the Artemisya project expected to start?
Construction for the Artemisya project is scheduled to commence in 2026, with commissioning planned for late 2027.
Who can be contacted for more information on Voltalia?
For inquiries, you can reach out to Loan Duong, Director of Communications & Investor Relations, via email at invest@voltalia.com.
