Baku: Azerbaijan is set to increase its focus on attracting investors to the rooftop solar energy market, as highlighted by Deputy Energy Minister Orkhan Zeynalov during an event at Baku Energy Week. Azerbaijan's onshore solar energy potential is estimated at approximately 135 gigawatts.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Zeynalov expressed enthusiasm for developing rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in various regions and cities across Azerbaijan.

The government has designated Karabakh, Eastern Zangezur, and Nakhchivan as green energy zones, where rooftop solar energy programs are a key part of the development strategy. Preliminary studies indicate a promising potential for rooftop solar installations, estimated at around 9.4 gigawatts, with a total clean energy generation potential of 11.8 gigawatts.

Zeynalov emphasized collaboration with the World Bank in advancing the study's next phases, involving market participants and potential investors. Significant business and investment opportunities are foreseen in major cities such as Baku, Nakhchivan, Aghdam, Jabrayil, Khankendi, Shusha, Julfa, Gubadli, and Zangilan, with potential expansion to other cities.

The deputy minister also emphasized that the establishment of green energy zones would lay a solid foundation for the country's transition to net-zero emissions, aligning with government efforts toward a green energy transition. This transition is expected to create opportunities for the private sector.