Despite being endowed with rich natural resources, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have wrestled with energy security. The over-reliance of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan on hydropower makes them vulnerable to variations in precipitation and climate change. For Uzbekistan, an undiversified energy mix is a major concern, given its international commitments to reduce emissions.

All three countries are experiencing the effects of climate change in the form of low water levels and climate-related hazards such as droughts. The progressive depletion of water and hydrocarbon reserves (and growing populations and expanding economies) makes it crucial for these countries to increase their share of non-conventional renewable energy sources (such as solar, wind and small hydropower) in the energy mix and to transition to such sources.

This report explores the opportunities and co-benefits of transitioning to a net-zero economy in the three countries, with a specific focus on the energy sector and non-conventional renewable energy sources, particularly solar, small hydropower and wind power. The report builds on available studies, evidence and secondary data on the energy sector, including renewables. The study has benefited from several rounds of consultations with international and national experts and government officials in the respective countries.