First International Geothermal Forum in Uzbekistan A Milestone for Central Asia's Clean Energy Future

The First International Geothermal Forum in Uzbekistan A Milestone for Central Asia's Clean Energy Future

Posted by Alphaxioms Geothermal News

Date: January 27, 2026

As the world accelerates its shift toward sustainable and reliable energy sources, a groundbreaking event is set to take place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on 3-4 February 2026.The First International Geothermal Forum, hosted by Uzbekistan in collaboration with the International Geothermal Association (IGA), represents a historic first for the country and the broader Central Asian region. This convening brings together senior government officials, regulators, oil and gas companies transitioning to renewables, investors, technology providers, and international development institutions to explore the untapped potential of geothermal energy.

This forum is more than just a conference—it's a strategic platform designed to build policy readiness, share technical knowledge, and attract long-term investments for responsible geothermal development. In a region historically reliant on fossil fuels, Uzbekistan's initiative signals a growing commitment to energy diversification, energy security, and environmental sustainability.

Why Geothermal Matters for Uzbekistan and Central Asia

Uzbekistan, the most populous country in Central Asia, has long depended on natural gas for its energy needs. However, declining domestic production, rising demand, and global pressure to reduce carbon emissions are pushing the nation toward renewables. While solar and wind have seen rapid growth—with nearly 5 GW installed by late 2025—geothermal offers unique advantages: baseload power (available 24/7), low operational costs once developed, and minimal land use compared to large-scale solar or wind farms.

According to estimates from the International Energy Agency (IEA) and other sources, Uzbekistan's gross geothermal potential is substantial, with geothermal waters estimated at around 244,200 tonnes of coal equivalent annually. The average temperature of these resources is about 45.5°C, with hotter zones in regions like Bukhara (up to 56°C) and Syrdarya (50°C). The Fergana Valley stands out as particularly promising for development, though resources exist across much of the country. At depths of 4,000–6,000 meters, rock temperatures reach 70–300°C, opening doors for deeper, more advanced geothermal systems.

Central Asia as a whole boasts significant geothermal promise, though deployment remains limited. Uzbekistan's move to host this forum aligns with broader regional trends, including plans to build the country's first geothermal power plant—a landmark project that could position Uzbekistan as a pioneer in the region.

The forum's timing is strategic. Uzbekistan is actively pursuing ambitious renewable targets, aiming for 40% of electricity from renewables by 2030 (including hydro). Geothermal can complement intermittent sources like solar and wind, providing stable power to support industrial growth, heating needs, and even exports in the future.

Event Highlights and Structure

The two-day event, held at the conference hall of JSC «Uzlitiineftegaz» in Tashkent, is structured to maximize impact:

Day 1 (3 February): Focuses on strategic perspectives. Senior representatives from ministries, national institutions, and international organizations will deliver keynote addresses and panel discussions. Topics include policy frameworks, regulatory reforms, and the role of geothermal in national energy strategies. This open session aims to build consensus and political buy-in.

Day 2 (4 February): Features a closed technical roundtable for selected stakeholders. In-depth discussions will cover subsurface potential assessment, technology pathways (from direct use of heat to binary cycle power plants), implementation challenges, and risk mitigation. This format fosters candid exchanges on real-world barriers like exploration costs, drilling risks, and financing models.

The IGA, as the global convener for geothermal energy, plays a pivotal role. The association facilitates dialogue, knowledge exchange, and international cooperation—essential for emerging regions like Central Asia. By grounding discussions in "policy readiness, technical reality, and long-term investment frameworks," the forum seeks to create bankable projects that attract credible investors.

The event poster highlights the forum's eco-friendly vision, with imagery of green fields, geothermal plants, and clean energy symbols. It emphasizes themes like "Improvement of Ecology" in multiple languages, underscoring the environmental benefits of shifting from fossil fuels.

Broader Implications for the Region

Uzbekistan's initiative reflects rising interest across Central Asia in diversifying energy systems. Countries like Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan face similar challenges: over-reliance on hydrocarbons or hydro, vulnerability to climate variability, and the need for domestic, reliable energy sources.

Geothermal is particularly appealing because it's domestically anchored—reducing import dependence—and offers co-benefits like district heating, agriculture (greenhouses), and spa tourism. Recent collaborations, such as discussions between JSC Uzbekneftegaz and the IGA's Director-General in 2025, laid the groundwork for this forum.

This convening could catalyze:

- Policy reforms to streamline permitting and incentivize exploration.

- Partnerships between oil & gas firms (with drilling expertise) and geothermal developers.

- Investment inflows from international institutions and private capital.

- Knowledge transfer to build local capacity in an emerging industry.

Globally, geothermal remains underutilized despite its reliability. Events like this help close the gap, especially as the IGA's campaigns (including lead-up to the World Geothermal Congress 2026) spotlight innovation.

Looking Ahead

The First International Geothermal Forum in Tashkent is a bold step toward a greener future for Uzbekistan and Central Asia. As the region grapples with energy security, climate goals, and economic growth, geothermal offers a pathway to sustainable, homegrown power.

For geothermal enthusiasts, investors, and policymakers, this event is not to be missed. It marks the beginning of what could be a transformative chapter for clean energy in one of the world's most resource-rich yet underexplored regions.

Stay tuned to Alphaxioms Geothermal News for updates from the forum and deeper dives into Central Asia's geothermal potential.

Source: IGA

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