The Asian Development Bank (ADB) recently approved a $21 million grant to upgrade the Golovnaya hydropower plant in Tajikistan. This initiative aims to boost the country’s renewable energy capacity and improve regional energy security. The modernization of the plant includes the replacement of the damaged power generation unit no. 4 in 2019.
This unit was not included in the original ADB project approved in 2013, which financed the replacement of five of the plant’s six generating units.
Project background and objectives
The original ADB project, financed by a $136 million grant, also included the rehabilitation of switchyards, the modernization of the Vose substation and the construction of the Rudaki substation with a transmission line linking Rudaki and Vose in southern Tajikistan.
The main objective is to support inclusive and sustainable economic growth while contributing to the balanced development of the region.
Impact on regional development
The electricity generated by the Golovnaya hydropower plant feeds national and regional grids, benefiting not only Tajikistan, but also neighboring countries.
ADB’s support significantly enhances regional energy security, promoting stability and economic growth.
Since joining ADB in 1998, Tajikistan has received more than $2.6 billion in aid, including over $2 billion in grants.
ADB’s areas of intervention in the country cover infrastructure, health, education, agriculture and public sector management.
ADB’s mission
Founded in 1966, the Asian Development Bank’s mission is to promote prosperity, inclusiveness, resilience and sustainability in Asia and the Pacific, while working to eradicate extreme poverty.
ADB is owned by 68 members, 49 of whom are from the region.
With this new grant, ADB continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable and inclusive development in Central Asia, supporting projects that have a direct and positive impact on the lives of local and regional populations.
The modernization of the Golovnaya hydropower plant represents a crucial step towards improving Tajikistan’s energy infrastructure.
By increasing renewable electricity production capacity, the project will help reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate environmental impacts.
It will also strengthen regional energy cooperation, a key factor for economic and political stability in the region.
