Masdar has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Kyrgyz Republic’s Ministry of Energy to explore the development of renewable energy opportunities in Kyrgyzstan and support the country’s clean energy objectives.

Under the terms of the MOU, Masdar will explore the development of and investment in ground-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV), floating solar PV and hydropower projects, with a potential capacity of up to 1 GW. The specific projects to be developed were not disclosed.

Energy Minister Bekmurzaev Doskul Djumagulovich and Abdulla Zayed, head of Development and Investment for Central Asia and Russia at Masdar, signed the MoU.

Kyrgyzstan is targeting reducing greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 44% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The country already generates around 90% of its electricity from clean energy resources, almost exclusively from aging hydropower plants.

“Masdar is ready to support Kyrgyzstan’s efforts to diversify its energy sources, cut greenhouse gas emissions and deliver carbon-free development by 2050. Kyrgyzstan has abundant potential to develop a wider range of clean energy resources, including solar and floating solar, which will deliver greater energy security and support better management of water resources,” Zayed said.

Established in 2006, Masdar, Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company, develops renewable energy projects in the Middle East and North Africa and international markets. The company is wholly owned by the Abu Dhabi government’s Mubadala Investment Company.