Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- The Russian design, survey, and research institute "Hydroproject" named after S.Ya. Zhuk will be responsible for developing the technical and economic justifications for the construction of two pumped-storage hydroelectric power stations (HPPs) in Uzbekistan.

This institute is part of the RusHydro Group, which specializes in renewable energy production, such as hydroelectric power, solar, wind, and geothermal energy.

According to RusHydro, the completion of work on the feasibility studies for the Karateren and Aidarkul pumped storage hydroelectric power stations is planned by the beginning of 2025.

RusHydro also reported that in April 2024, two contracts for the design of these HPPs were signed between "Hydroproject" and the Directorate for Construction No. 1, which is part of "Uzbekhydroenergo". The Russian institute was selected through open competitive procedures.

"Uzbekhydroenergo" is a state-owned company that owns all hydroelectric power stations in Uzbekistan.

Preliminary calculations show that the capacity of the Karateren HPP will be 500 MW in turbine mode and 600 MW in pump mode. The expected capacity of the Aidarkul HPP will be 250 MW in turbine mode and 300 MW in pump mode.

High-manoeuvrability capacities of HPPs are necessary to ensure the reliable and efficient operation of Uzbekistan's energy system, especially considering the planned introduction of significant capacities of solar and wind generation, emphasizes RusHydro.

The Hydroproject Institute has extensive experience in cooperation with Uzbekhydroenergo. In 2023, at the company's request, a scheme for the placement of HPPs on the territory of Uzbekistan was developed. A comprehensive analysis of 19 potential sites was conducted, of which 8 were deemed prospective for construction. Preliminary parameters and technical-economic indicators of these HPPs were also established, and the economic aspects of their operation in the Uzbekistan energy market were evaluated.

As part of cooperation with the Directorate for Construction No. 4, a feasibility study was developed for the Mullalak HPP, additional engineering surveys were conducted, and scientific and technical support was provided for the design work for the Pskem HPP feasibility study.

It is worth noting that Russian President Vladimir Putin, during his state visit to Uzbekistan in late May, announced plans to build two large pumped storage hydroelectric power stations on the lakes of Aidarkul and Karateren. According to him, the total generating capacity of these facilities will be 1 gigawatt.

HPPs are designed for the accumulation and subsequent production of electricity using hydraulic processes. Their operation principle is based on the use of two reservoirs located at different altitudes.