DESCRIPTION Integrating FPV with the existing hydropower infrastructure will diversify the energy mix, providing a clean, reliable and consistent power supply throughout the year. This hybrid system will help mitigate the risks associated with seasonal hydropower fluctuations. It will provide reliable green electricity to meet growing demand at an affordable cost, reducing load shedding during winter months when hydropower alone cannot meet electricity demand. By utilizing the reservoir surface, the project minimizes land use and preserves natural habitats, significantly reducing the carbon footprint and promoting environmental sustainability. Moreover, installation of floating solar panels could help conserve water resources by reducing evaporation from the reservoir, ensuring better water availability for hydropower generation and irrigation uses, thus enhancing overall water resource management and food security. FPVs benefit from the cooling effect of water, which enhances solar panel efficiency. This results in higher energy yields compared to land-based systems. The electricity produced by the plant during the summer months will be exported to neighboring Central Asian countries through the already existing transmission facilities contributing to mitigation efforts in the region. This project will be the first of its kind in the country, serving as a pioneering model for future initiatives to harness the potential of floating solar power in the country. Integrating floating solar photovoltaic (FPV) systems with the existing hydropower infrastructure will diversify Tajikistan's energy mix, providing a clean, reliable, and consistent power supply throughout the year. This hybrid system will help mitigate the risks associated with seasonal hydropower fluctuations, ensuring a stable energy supply even during the winter months when river water flow decreases. By providing reliable green electricity to meet growing demand at an affordable cost, the project will reduce load shedding during periods of high demand. The project will include comprehensive training and capacity-building programs for local engineers and technicians, ensuring the successful implementation and maintenance of the FPV system. PROJECT RATIONALE AND LINKAGE TO COUNTRY/REGIONAL STRATEGY The current power generation capacity of Tajikistan is insufficient to meet the increasing internal and external demand driven by population growth, accelerated urbanization, and overall economic expansion. Tajikistan's heavy reliance on hydropower, which accounts for over 90% of the country's electricity generation, makes it energy-insecure and vulnerable to climate change. This dependence on hydropower results in significant seasonal variations in energy availability, particularly during the winter months when river water flow decreases, leading to energy shortages. Consequently, a substantial portion of residents and businesses are left without access to reliable energy during this critical period. IMPACT Energy security and efficient use of energy enhanced OUTCOME Climate-resilient power generation from renewable energy in Tajikistan increased, cross-border access to clean energy improved

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