O‘ZLITINEFTGAZ JSC has held the first international forum on geothermal energy in Uzbekistan’s history, Uzbekneftegaz reported on 6 February 2026. The forum was initiated by the International Geothermal Association (IGA) and focused on developing and introducing geothermal technologies.
Taking part were representatives of foreign companies that belong to the IGA, including Arctic Green Energy, Paetoro Consulting UK and Green Chemicals; specialists of the Ministry of Mining Industry and Geology and the Ministry of Energy; staff of Uzbekneftegaz and the Institute of Geology and Exploration of Oil and Gas Fields; and representatives of state bodies, research institutes, and energy and design companies.
Speakers gave presentations on developing geothermal projects, attracting investment and introducing modern technology. Discussions covered Uzbekistan’s geothermal potential, its use in heating, agriculture and industry, the conditions for pilot and large-scale projects, regulation and international cooperation. Forum participants noted that at depths of 4,000–6,000 metres, subsurface temperatures can reach 70–300 °C.
Pilot projects agreed
Reporting on the forum on 11 February, the Ministry of Mining Industry and Geology said it ended with an agreement to carry out pilot projects together, led by the Ministry of Energy with the Ministry of Mining Industry and Geology and research institutes, with IGA support and funding from international financial institutions and grants.
It followed the IGA’s September 2025 meetings in Tashkent, where Uzbekneftegaz and the IGA agreed to form a joint working group to draft a geothermal roadmap.
