ADB Approves $1 Million Grant to Support Floating Solar Development in Tajikistan
Dushanbe, The Gulf Observer: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $1 million technical assistance grant to support the Government of Tajikistan in the development of floating solar photovoltaic (FPV) systems, marking a significant step toward expanding the country’s renewable energy capacity.
“This innovative initiative is about making the most of what Tajikistan has—sun and water,” said ADB Country Director for Tajikistan Ko Sakamoto. “It’s a smart step toward a future where everyone has reliable energy year-round, without harming the environment.”
Tajikistan’s mountainous terrain, which covers approximately 93% of the country, limits the availability of flat land for large-scale, ground-mounted solar projects, as much of the suitable land is already used for agriculture and housing. In contrast, the country’s reservoirs provide extensive sunlit surfaces and existing infrastructure, making floating solar installations a cost-effective and practical alternative for generating clean energy.
Under the technical assistance program, up to five reservoirs will be screened to assess their potential for FPV development. A detailed feasibility study will then be prepared for a utility-scale floating solar system to be constructed at one of the selected sites.
The initiative also aims to strengthen local capacity and technical expertise in floating solar technology. Government officials and energy sector professionals will participate in study tours, expert consultations, and regional knowledge exchanges. In addition, the financial management system of Barki Tojik, the state-owned power generation company, will be upgraded to improve operational efficiency and transparency.
Tajikistan became a member of ADB in 1998. Since then, the partnership has contributed to major infrastructure and development projects across the country, including the modernization of key transport routes such as the Obigarm–Nurobod, Dushanbe–Bokhtar, Ayni–Panjakent, Dushanbe–Tursunzade, and Vose–Khovaling roads. ADB has also supported the rehabilitation of irrigation and water supply systems, the construction of hospitals and schools, and the development of power transmission lines and substations. Notably, it has played a role in reconnecting Tajikistan’s electricity grid to the Central Asian power network and rehabilitating major hydropower plants, including Nurek and Golovnaya.
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank committed to promoting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members, including 50 from the region, and works closely with governments and partners to deliver innovative financial solutions, build quality infrastructure, and address complex development challenges.
