Azerbaijan, UAE explore energy cooperation
Baku, April 29, AZERTAC
Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov has met with a delegation from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) led by Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The meeting, held within the framework of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Azerbaijan and the UAE, reviewed the current state and development prospects of cooperation in the oil and gas sector, renewable energy, energy efficiency, regional energy corridors, and logistics.
Discussions addressed the global energy balance, emphasizing the significant share of hydrocarbons and the role of natural gas as a transition fuel. In this context, the sides evaluated joint projects involving energy companies from both countries, specifically focusing on natural gas exports and access to European markets through existing infrastructure. The 230 MW solar power plant was highlighted as a successful milestone, while work continues on 1,000 MW of solar and wind projects with Masdar.
The officials also discussed the initiative to create the green energy corridor between Azerbaijan and the European Union via the Black Sea, modeled after the Southern Gas Corridor. This project is deemed essential for strengthening Europe’s energy security and accelerating the energy transition. Furthermore, the UAE delegation was briefed on the Joint Venture established between Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan for an electricity interconnector. This regional project is currently in the feasibility study stage, with funding from the Asian Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
The meeting focused on expanding cooperation in energy efficiency. An agreement was reached to share the UAE’s best practices regarding the Energy Service Company (ESCO) model and to develop new collaborative avenues in this field.