In the Ministry of Energy, investment and power purchase agreements for the construction of two new solar power plants in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic have been signed and formalized as one of the important stages of Azerbaijan’s “green energy” strategy.
According to Trend, the event was attended by Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov, leadership of “Azərenerji” OJSC, Minister of Economy of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic Kazim Huseynali, representatives of the State Agency for Renewable Energy Sources, “Azerbaijan Green Energy Company” (AGEC), “CEI Nakhchivan” LLC, “Nobel Energy,” and “Enerso” LLC.
During the meeting, discussions focused on the development of Nakhchivan in line with President Ilham Aliyev’s “green energy zone” concept, the widespread application of renewable energy sources, the establishment of modern grid infrastructure, and efforts to strengthen the energy system. Attention was also given to the energy component of the Zangezur Corridor, Nakhchivan’s integration into Azerbaijan’s unified energy system, and future prospects for electricity exports.
The construction of two solar power plants with a total capacity of 50 MW (“Shams 1” and “Western Horizon”) in Nakhchivan is regarded as the private sector’s first major investment projects in this field. With a total investment volume exceeding 60 million manats, these stations will make a significant contribution to the formation of Nakhchivan’s “green development” model.
Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov stated in his speech: “Strengthening Nakhchivan’s energy security, accelerating its socio-economic development, and transforming it into a regional energy export hub are among the priorities of the head of state. Currently, the share of renewable energy sources in Nakhchivan accounts for 44% of installed capacity and 36.4% of generation. The new projects will further expand ‘green energy’ in the region and give impetus to economic growth.”
President of “Azərenerji” OJSC Baba Rzayev emphasized the strategic importance of the solar plants in meeting the increased energy demand during summer months and enhancing the reliability of Nakhchivan’s energy supply.
Minister of Economy of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic Kazim Huseynali highly appreciated the realization of the region’s rich solar potential and the contribution of the new capacities to economic development, as well as to future energy exports to neighboring countries and Europe.
Deputy Chairman of the Board of AGEC Khayala Naghiyeva noted that the projects are a successful example of public-private sector partnership and will serve to increase green investments in the region and create long-term economic value.
Eldar Mammadzade, Chief Commercial Officer of “Nobel Energy,” stressed that the company will continue its activities in support of the “Green Energy Zone” initiative and the establishment of modern energy infrastructure.
According to the signed contracts:
The implementation of the projects is expected to generate approximately 122 million kWh of electricity annually, which will result in savings of 26 million cubic meters of gas and a reduction of 57,000 tons of carbon emissions.
It should be noted that, according to operational data for 2025, electricity generation in Azerbaijan increased by 0.9% to 28.657 billion kWh. Generation from wind and solar plants rose by 162.3 million kWh, reaching 769.5 million kWh. In Nakhchivan, 36.6% of generated electricity comes from renewable sources.
Nationwide, the target is to reach a total installed capacity of 8 GW from solar and wind energy by 2032. The new projects are regarded as an important step toward achieving this goal.