Azerbaijan's renewable energy sector, specifically solar power, has witnessed a notable surge in output during the first nine months of two thousand twenty-five. Solar power generation increased by twelve percent compared to the same period in the previous year, producing four hundred eighty-four million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. This boost highlights the country's ongoing commitment to expanding its renewable energy capabilities and diversifying its energy resources.
As part of Azerbaijan's broader renewable energy strategy, solar power is proving to be a key contributor to the country's evolving energy mix. This growth is not just limited to solar power, as the country continues to invest in various other renewable sources, including hydroelectric, wind, and biomass energy.
Azerbaijan's total electricity generation in the first three quarters of two thousand twenty-five reached approximately twenty billion five hundred three million kWh, marking a modest increase of zero point one percent when compared to the same period in the previous year. Of this total, over nineteen billion eight hundred seventeen million kWh was commercial electricity, which remained stable from the previous year.
While the increase in overall electricity generation was relatively small, the data reflect that Azerbaijan's energy sector is in a period of gradual but steady growth. The country continues to rely heavily on its thermal power plants and hydroelectric facilities, while also embracing newer, cleaner technologies such as solar and wind power.
Azerbaijan's renewable energy capacity continues to grow steadily. By the end of two thousand twenty-four, the country had an installed renewable energy capacity of one thousand eight hundred twenty-nine point six megawatts (MW), accounting for approximately eighteen point eight percent of the total installed capacity. This renewable capacity includes sixty-five hydroelectric power plants, five wind power plants, nine solar power plants, and three hybrid power plants.
Azerbaijan has been actively pursuing policies that support the expansion of renewable energy sources. The country has set ambitious goals for the future, aiming for a thirty percent share of renewable energy in its total electricity generation by the year two thousand thirty. This commitment aligns with global trends towards cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions, as well as Azerbaijan's desire to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
Azerbaijan's focus on renewable energy also reflects its broader efforts to diversify its economy, particularly in response to the fluctuations in global oil prices. By investing in renewable energy, Azerbaijan is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable energy within the region.
Azerbaijan is currently implementing several large-scale renewable energy projects that are expected to further boost the country's renewable energy capacity in the coming years. These projects include:
Azerbaijan's renewable energy strategy also involves increasing cooperation with neighboring countries and international partners. The country is working to integrate its energy infrastructure with that of Türkiye and Europe, enabling the export of renewable energy to these regions. This will not only help Azerbaijan to meet its energy needs but will also establish the country as a regional energy hub.
The country's renewable energy strategy also reflects its broader geopolitical goals of reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and diversifying its energy sources. By investing in renewable energy, Azerbaijan aims to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.
In addition to its national efforts, Azerbaijan is also involved in various regional and international energy initiatives. The country is participating in the Southern Gas Corridor project, which is aimed at transporting Caspian gas to Europe, and is also involved in the development of regional energy infrastructure that will allow for greater integration of renewable energy into the regional grid.
The twelve percent increase in solar energy generation in two thousand twenty-five demonstrates Azerbaijan's ongoing commitment to diversifying its energy mix and investing in sustainable, renewable energy sources. With several large-scale renewable energy projects underway and ambitious goals for the future, the country is well on its way to meeting its renewable energy targets and positioning itself as a leader in the region's green energy transition.
Azerbaijan's shift towards cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions will not only benefit the environment but also contribute to the country's economic growth and energy security. As the country continues to invest in solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources, it will play an increasingly important role in the global transition to cleaner energy.