TREND, Dangara — Tajikistan and South Korea are making significant progress on a joint project to establish a solar panel manufacturing facility in the Dangara Free Economic Zone (FEZ), a move that underscores both countries' commitment to expanding renewable energy infrastructure.

According to Trend News Agency, officials from both nations have reiterated their strong commitment to enhancing collaboration in renewable energy during recent discussions. The State Committee on Investments and State Property Management of Tajikistan highlighted the ongoing efforts and future potential of the project.

The initiative began with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon laying the foundation stone for the facility on May 24, marking a significant step towards increasing renewable energy capacity in the region. The plant, supported by the Tajik government and South Korean investment from Global Solar Wafer, is being developed in four phases.

Upon completion, the project is expected to generate significant economic benefits, including the creation of over 8,000 jobs, with 95 percent of the positions set to be filled by local Tajik citizens. This move is seen as a boost to local employment and skills development.

The plant will occupy 22 hectares in the western part of the Dangara FEZ, an area promoted for its favorable business and investment climate. The total investment for the facility is projected at $2 billion, emphasizing the scale and ambition of this renewable energy venture.

The first phase of the plant is expected to be operational by March 2025, with a production capacity aimed at generating 5,000 megawatts of solar panel equipment annually. This capacity is poised to make a substantial contribution to regional energy needs and environmental sustainability efforts.