Azerbaijan And UAE Strengthen Their Deep-Rooted Relations In The Energy Sector

Minister of Energy of Azerbaijan, Parviz Shahbazov stated that his country and the UAE have deep-rooted relations. This includes the energy sector.

He also said that the UAE had contributed to green energy projects for Azerbaijan.

Shahbazov, in an interview with WAM, stated that Janub Thermal Power Plant was co-financed and funded by Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD). It has a production capacity of 780 megawatts.

Azerbaijan signed numerous agreements with Masdar for electricity purchase, transfer, and investment at the Garadagh Solar Plant. It is located between 60-70 kilometres from Baku.

Shahbazov highlighted the UAE’s willingness to improve its cooperation through Masdar. He pointed out that they have signed an agreement to start a major project to produce 4,000 MW of electricity. The first phase will include an offshore wind power station with a capacity of 2,000 MW and an onshore solar power plant.

He said that the project is part of Azerbaijan’s plans to increase its capacity by 6 GW.

He spoke about the importance and role of COP28 in promoting energy transformation and said that international efforts to achieve this goal will be driven by the event. The cooperation between Azerbaijan and the UAE is a significant contributor to this process.

Shahbazov, who spoke out on Azerbaijan’s plans to develop its renewable energy industry, stated that his country has more than 200 years of oil extraction experience, has begun producing and exporting natural gases, and is looking to get involved in green energy projects.

Azerbaijan has committed to reducing its carbon emission to 40% by 2044. It is creating a special zone to produce green electricity and reach carbon neutrality by 2050. This is supported by the UAE’s cooperation, he said.

He said that the company also plans to increase its international standing among green energy providers and double its natural gas exports over the next few years.

Shahbazov stated that Masdar will be a key partner in Azerbaijan’s future cooperation with the UAE in sustainable growth.