Azerbaijan, US talk over green energy, regional security

Azerbaijan's Energy Minister, Parviz Shahbazov, recently met with Hugo Guevara, the Charge d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan, to discuss key energy matters impacting the region and Europe.

The meeting centered on the vital role of the Azerbaijan-U.S. Energy Partnership in regional energy security, particularly in oil, gas, and renewable energy, Caliber.Az reports via Azerbaijan's Ministry of Energy.

Both sides explored opportunities for enhanced cooperation in Azerbaijan’s international energy initiatives, underscoring the country’s pivotal position in the global energy landscape.

A significant portion of the conversation focused on Azerbaijan's efforts to diversify its energy mix, including the ongoing development of renewable energy sources. Minister Shahbazov highlighted the nearing completion of the first phase of the green energy development plan, which aims to meet domestic needs while raising the share of renewable energy in electricity generation to 33%.

Efforts to strengthen the energy grid and develop additional renewable energy capacity were also discussed. The possibility of establishing green energy interconnectors with Türkiye, Europe, and Central Asia was explored, with an emphasis on the importance of supplying clean energy to Europe.

The meeting also touched on the Southern Gas Corridor and the Green Energy Advisory Council, both key components of Azerbaijan's broader energy strategy. Following the discussions, a hybrid-format board meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council was held, chaired by Minister Shahbazov. During the session, members and representatives from the Ministry of Energy reviewed key tasks and discussed progress in implementing Azerbaijan’s energy policy, as outlined by President Ilham Aliyev.

A detailed presentation was made on the preparation, approval, and control mechanisms related to the energy mix, with a focus on improving coordination and cooperation with relevant authorities. The session also reviewed executive discipline, the handling of citizens' appeals in 2024, and the progress of the Ministry's work plan. At the conclusion of the meeting, Shahbazov issued relevant instructions to ensure the effective implementation of discussed matters.

This meeting further underscores Azerbaijan’s strategic role in global energy security and its commitment to advancing green energy initiatives.

By Aghakazim Guliyev