BAKU: Azerbaijan is actively developing a national hydrogen strategy to align with global ‘net zero’ goals and enhance its green energy capabilities, according to an article by Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov published in the “Azerbaijan” newspaper.

According to Trend News Agency, Minister Shahbazov emphasized that hydrogen is crucial to Azerbaijan’s energy future and its green development program. The national strategy aims to produce and utilize low-carbon hydrogen, explore export opportunities through green corridors, and establish clear targets based on prepared scenarios. “The document ‘Development of Azerbaijan’s National Hydrogen Strategy and its Implementation Plan’ is expected to be completed before COP29 and will be presented on ‘Energy Day’,” he stated.

In addition to hydrogen development, Azerbaijan has seen significant progress in energy efficiency, a key component of its energy transition. Following new legislation and the establishment of 14 by-laws, the Energy Efficiency Fund was created in
March by a decree from President Ilham Aliyev. This fund is crucial for fostering energy efficiency initiatives and the rational use of energy resources, providing grants, subsidies, and soft loans. It is managed by the Ministry of Energy as the Energy Regulatory Agency.

The minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to set the criteria for projects supported by the Energy Efficiency Fund, appoint energy managers in various sectors, conduct energy audits, and ensure energy production and supply efficiency. Moreover, a national program for the renovation of buildings and new energy efficiency laws and regulations are currently being developed. “A ‘Scenario Outcome Document’ will also be introduced before COP29, outlining technical assistance projects for low-carbon solutions in the electricity sector supported by the EBRD,” Shahbazov added.