A New Energy Bridge: Central Asia Unites for a Green Corridor to Europe

A New Era of Energy Cooperation

The Green Corridor Union LLC, officially registered in Baku, is set to play a pivotal role in coordinating efforts to export surplus renewable electricity from Central Asia to Europe. This initiative is not just about energy; it represents a significant shift in geopolitical and economic strategies, emphasizing interregional cooperation, sustainability, and energy diversification.

From Vision to Reality

The project's origins can be traced back to COP29 in Baku, where the presidents of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan signed a declaration on strategic cooperation in green energy. Recently, the vision turned into reality as the National Electric Grids of Uzbekistan, KEGOC of Kazakhstan, and AzerEnergy of Azerbaijan signed the founding documents for the Green Corridor Union LLC. The company is now led by Farhad Mammadov.

This ambitious corridor aims to connect solar and wind-rich regions in Central Asia to European energy grids through a complex network of transmission infrastructure. The plan involves crossing Kazakhstan, traversing beneath the Caspian Sea, passing through Azerbaijan and Georgia, and finally reaching Romania, creating a link between the Caspian Basin and the heart of the European Union.

Azerbaijan: Gateway to Europe

Azerbaijan, with its growing renewable capacity and strategic access to the Black Sea, is positioned as the final connector in the Green Corridor. From its shores, power generated in Central Asia would cross the Black Sea via a proposed subsea cable toward Romania, forming what could become the first trans-Caspian green energy link to the EU.

Azerbaijan’s Energy Minister, Parviz Shahbazov, emphasized the significance of this initiative, calling it a strategic and historic step that marks the beginning of the Caspian Green Energy Corridor. The country has already signed a memorandum of cooperation with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, with plans to conclude an Intergovernmental Agreement on Strategic Partnership in Green Energy during COP29.

Uzbekistan's Investment Boom

Uzbekistan has rapidly accelerated its green energy transformation. According to the Minister of Energy, Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, the country expects to produce over 135 billion kWh of electricity by 2030, with 10-15 billion kWh available for export. Over the past year, investments in green energy have tripled, with foreign direct investment reaching €4.23 billion by the end of 2024.

These investments are reshaping Uzbekistan's energy landscape, with more than 4.2 GW of renewable capacity online and plans to reach 20 GW by 2030. Solar and wind projects are underway across the country, contributing to measurable progress toward COP commitments. Uzbekistan’s renewable output has already saved 1.3 billion cubic metres of gas and reduced emissions by 1.8 million tons of CO₂.

Kazakhstan: From Transit to Transformation

For Kazakhstan, the Green Corridor represents a strategic investment in regional leadership and green growth. Kazakhstan’s Minister of Energy, Erlan Akkenzhenov, highlighted the importance of the project, stating that it allows the country to capitalize on its renewable potential and establish a sustainable export route for clean electricity to Europe.

Kazakhstan's role as a key transit hub will be supported by KEGOC, which manages national grid operations. While financial commitments are still being negotiated, the country has already signed a Memorandum of Understanding with partners and financial institutions like the Asian Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

European Eyes on the Corridor

As Europe moves toward climate neutrality and energy security, initiatives like the Green Corridor are gaining attention. The proposed interconnection would boost supply diversification for Europe while bringing long-term geopolitical and economic benefits to both the EU and Central Asia.

The project aligns with the EU Green Deal and the Global Gateway strategy, aiming to invest in sustainable infrastructure across partner regions. Talks are ongoing with European institutions, and all three countries are interested in attracting European investors and developers to the initiative.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the promise of the Green Corridor, challenges remain. Undersea transmission cables require substantial investment and advanced engineering. Political coordination over transit routes and regional tensions must be carefully navigated. Financing the multi-billion-euro infrastructure will also require sustained international support.

However, the foundation has been laid. The joint venture has been formed, feasibility studies are underway, and momentum is building. This initiative marks a new chapter in energy cooperation, connecting energy, environment, and economic opportunity for the future.