In an inspiring step toward a cleaner energy future, French renewable energy company Voltalia has launched construction of its ambitious Artemisya project in Uzbekistan, marking a transformative moment for Central Asia's transition to sustainable power.

The exciting first phase, which began construction at the start of 2026, will bring 100MW of wind generation and a 100MW/200MWh battery energy storage system to the historic region of Bukhara. This ancient Silk Road city, located 570km southwest of the capital Tashkent, is now becoming a symbol of forward-thinking energy innovation.

What makes this project particularly remarkable is its "strategic cluster" approach, combining multiple renewable energy sources with cutting-edge storage technology. When fully completed, the Artemisya project will deliver an impressive 126MW of solar power alongside 300MW of wind generation, creating a comprehensive clean energy solution for the region.

The project enjoys strong governmental support, with Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev personally attending key agreement signings. This high-level backing demonstrates the country's serious commitment to renewable energy development and positions Uzbekistan as an emerging leader in Central Asia's green transition.

Voltalia has secured a long-term partnership with state-owned power company JSC Uzenergosotish through a comprehensive power purchase agreement signed in March 2025. The 25-year agreement for solar and storage, alongside a 15-year term for wind power, provides stability and confidence for this major infrastructure investment.

The French energy producer's entry into Uzbekistan in 2023 came with valuable support from the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development, one of its main shareholders. This collaboration highlights how international partnerships can accelerate sustainable development in emerging markets.

The Artemisya project represents just one piece of Voltalia's broader vision for Uzbekistan. The company has already begun work on the Sarimay Solar project, combining 126MW of solar generation with battery storage, and has signed agreements for the impressive Turan Storage project—a standalone 500MW/1,000MWh battery facility.

Uzbekistan's renewable energy sector is experiencing remarkable momentum, with multiple international developers recognizing the country's potential. The European Bank of Reconstruction and Development recently committed $142 million to support additional solar-plus-storage projects, while Middle Eastern developers including ACWA Power and Masdar have also launched major initiatives in the country.

This wave of investment reflects Uzbekistan's strategic importance in the global energy transition and the government's welcoming approach to international clean energy partnerships. The country is successfully leveraging its geographic advantages and supportive policy environment to attract world-class renewable energy developers.

With the first phase of Artemisya expected to complete in early 2027, Uzbekistan is well on its way to establishing itself as a regional renewable energy hub. The project will not only provide clean, reliable power to communities but also create jobs and build local expertise in advanced energy technologies.

As ancient trade routes once connected East and West through Bukhara, today's renewable energy corridors are creating new connections and opportunities, proving that historic cities can lead the way into a sustainable future.