The OPEC Fund has awarded a $25 million loan to Tajikistan’s ambitious Rogun hydroelectric project, marking the first installment of a larger $100 million financing facility aimed at boosting the initiative.
Construction of the Rogun Dam began in the 1970s during the Soviet era but was halted following the Soviet Union’s collapse. In March 2009, the World Bank Group pledged support to assess the feasibility of reviving the project. After years of stagnation, work resumed in 2016.
Situated in the Pamir Mountains, the Rogun hydro project will feature a 335-meter tall dam, making it the tallest in the world. With a capacity of 3,780 megawatts, it will also stand as the highest dam globally, with its crest positioned 1,300 meters above sea level.
OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “Tajikistan has enormous hydro energy potential, and tapping into this natural wealth will strengthen energy security, independence, and export capacities.” He added that the Rogun hydro plant represents not just an engineering milestone but also a vital step towards securing Tajikistan’s energy future. “The OPEC Fund is committed to supporting sustainable energy solutions that contribute to local and regional development,” he concluded.
The Rogun hydro project comprises a towering embankment dam, extensive hydraulic tunnels ranging from 1,100 to 1,500 meters, an underground powerhouse with six units, and additional auxiliary equipment. Beyond supplying power to Tajikistan, the facility is expected to enable energy exports to neighboring countries.
In 2022, construction progressed with Webuild initiating the concrete pour for the main dam, marking a significant milestone in the project’s development.
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