Shahvalli: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev laid the foundation stone for the ‘Shams’ and ‘Ufug’ Solar Power Plants, each boasting a capacity of 50 megawatts, in the Shahvalli village of Jabrayil district.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, this event marks a significant step in Azerbaijan’s ‘green energy’ strategy, representing a new phase in the energy landscape of Jabrayil district.

Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov provided President Aliyev with a briefing on the ‘Shams’ Solar Power Plant, highlighting its 50-megawatt capacity. The project is part of a broader energy initiative that began with a Memorandum of Understanding in March 2024, signed between the Ministry of Energy and Nobel Energy company. This agreement involves the construction of a 100 MW solar power plant and collaboration in electric energy production, sale, and consumption.

In April, the Government of Azerbaijan entered into investment agreements with Enerso Jabrayil LLC for the ‘Ufug’ Solar Power Plant and Clean Energy Jabrayil LLC for the ‘Shams’ Solar Power Plant. Last year, 229 hectares of state land in Jabrayil were designated for renewable energy projects, with over 135 hectares allocated to Clean Energy Jabrayil LLC and more than 93 hectares to Enerso Jabrayil LLC.

President Aliyev participated in the ground-breaking ceremonies for both the ‘Shams’ and ‘Ufug’ Solar Power Plants. These plants are projected to generate 206 million kWh annually, conserving 44 million cubic meters of natural gas and reducing emissions by 96,000 tons each year. Of the energy produced, 75 million kWh will be allocated to Azerenerji OJSC, while the remaining 131 million kWh will be sold directly to large consumers through virtual transmission contracts. The commissioning of both facilities is anticipated in 2027.