At least eight killed in monsoon landslides at Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh
Heavy monsoon rains triggered deadly landslides at Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh, killing at least eight people, including children, and forcin...
Russia and Tajikistan are discussing the construction of large-scale solar power plants with a total capacity of up to 500 megawatts. The initiative builds on a memorandum signed in 2025, with both sides now working on implementation details and potential locations for the facilities.
According to Tajikistan’s Minister of Energy and Water Resources, Daler Juma, the country’s solar energy potential is largely concentrated in the south. However, electricity demand is significantly higher in the north, creating supply imbalances, particularly during winter.
As a result, the new solar facilities are expected to be developed in northern Tajikistan, where they could help reduce seasonal shortages and stabilise electricity supply. Authorities say the project is intended to strengthen the resilience of the national power system and improve energy availability for industrial and residential users.
The planned solar plants are expected to reach a combined capacity of up to 500 megawatts. Tajikistan has previously announced plans to develop two photovoltaic stations with a capacity of 250 MW each. Together, these facilities would significantly increase the share of renewable energy and help diversify the country’s energy mix.
Investment in the project is estimated at around $250 million, with commissioning expected by the end of 2026.
Tajikistan’s energy sector currently relies heavily on hydropower, making electricity production vulnerable to seasonal water availability. During winter months, reduced river flows often lead to shortages and increased pressure on the grid.
The development of solar power is expected to complement hydropower by providing additional generation during daylight hours. Officials say this will improve system stability, reduce risks associated with water shortages, and support long-term energy diversification.
The Russia-Tajikistan initiative is also seen as part of broader regional cooperation in renewable energy. The project could support Tajikistan’s transition to cleaner energy sources while strengthening bilateral ties in infrastructure development.
Authorities note that expanding solar generation will contribute to improved energy security, reduced seasonal imbalances, and sustained economic growth. The planned facilities are expected to play a key role in modernising Tajikistan’s power sector and advancing its shift towards sustainable energy.
Russia's Defence Ministry has said its forces are clearing the town of Lyman in Donetsk of Ukrainian forces, Moscow's state news agency Tass reported. Meanwhile, Russian attacks killed at least six people across three Ukrainian regions on Friday, regional officials said.
The death toll from Venezuela's devastating twin earthquakes has risen to 3,342, according to the country's information ministry, as rescue teams continue searching affected areas and survivors face an uncertain recovery.
Governments are tightening restrictions on teenagers’ use of social media amid growing concerns over mental health, online safety and platform design, but questions remain over enforcement and whether bans can meaningfully change behaviour.
President Donald Trump said Iran is keen to reach a deal with the United States, claiming Washington had paused engagement to allow funeral ceremonies for late Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Thousands of mourners gathered in Tehran on Sunday as Iran held funeral prayers for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and four members of his family on the second day of mass processions. Three of Khamenei's sons attended the ceremony, while his successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, made no public appearance.
China has launched a new direct rail freight route to Turkmenistan, expanding its transport links with Central Asia as trade and investment across the region continue to grow. The service will carry Chinese industrial and consumer goods to the Caspian region.
More than 100 people were detained in Ankara on Sunday (5 July) after taking part in an anti-NATO protest organised by the Communist Party of Türkiye (TKP), according to the party.
Thousands of mourners gathered in Tehran on Sunday as Iran held funeral prayers for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and four members of his family on the second day of mass processions. Three of Khamenei's sons attended the ceremony, while his successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, made no public appearance.
Regional economic cooperation took centre stage in Baku as the 28th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank was held alongside a Business Forum. The event brought together government officials, business leaders and experts from across the region.
Uzbekistan is seeking to expand export and import cargo transportation through Georgia’s Black Sea port of Poti as part of efforts to diversify trade routes and strengthen regional connectivity, the Ministry of Transport said.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment