Tajikistan has achieved an impressive feat in its electricity sector, with more than 90% of its electricity coming from low-carbon sources. Specifically, around 93% of Tajikistan's electricity is generated through hydropower, a clean and sustainable energy source. This remarkable achievement not only supports the country’s internal energy needs but also positions Tajikistan as a significant net exporter of electricity. By exporting electricity to its neighbors, Tajikistan plays a crucial role in helping surrounding regions reduce their carbon emissions. However, to continue this positive trend, Tajikistan must work on electrifying other sectors like transport, heating, and industry, which will considerably increase the demand for electricity.

Is Electricity Growing in Tajikistan?

Despite its substantial reliance on low-carbon power generation, Tajikistan faces challenges in growing its electricity consumption. The latest recorded electricity consumption stands at 2201 kWh per person, which is noticeably lower than the historic peak of 3583 kWh per person in 1990. This represents a decline of more than a third in individual electricity consumption. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation per person has decreased since 1990, with the current figure of 2045 kWh per person marking a significant drop from the previous high of 3056 kWh per person. The need for growth and expansion in electricity, particularly low-carbon electricity, is evident.

Suggestions

To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Tajikistan could capitalize on the untapped potential of solar energy. With a high number of sunny days throughout the year, the country has the ideal conditions for solar power generation. Investing in solar infrastructure would not only increase electricity supply but also diversify its energy portfolio while maintaining its low-carbon footprint. Furthermore, exploring the development of nuclear energy could provide a steady and reliable energy source, offering a firm backbone to the nation’s energy grid, encouraging further opening of opportunities for electrification of other sectors.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Tajikistan, specifically hydropower, has been marked by fluctuations. In the early 1990s, there was a boom in hydroelectricity with a notable increase in generation in 1993, although it was followed by declines in the mid-1990s. The late 1990s and early 2000s saw alternate years of growth and decline, yet overall, the development was primarily positive. This positive trend continued modestly through the early 2010s and gradually increased towards the mid-2010s, experiencing another significant growth spurt between 2022 and 2025. This dynamic history underscores the resilience and potential of Tajikistan's hydropower sector, establishing a solid foundation for future expansion alongside other clean energy technologies like solar and nuclear.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Apr 2025 – Mar 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.