In this episode, Alfredo Baño Leal, an energy expert with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), discusses Uzbekistan's evolving energy sector. The conversation highlights the country's transition from gas dependency to renewable energy, with recent policy reforms driving energy efficiency and reducing waste. With over 1-2 GW of rooftop solar already installed and a target of 40% renewable capacity by 2030, Uzbekistan is rapidly reshaping its power grid.

Alfredo shares insights into the challenges of modernising the grid, the growing adoption of electric vehicles, and how distributed generation is becoming a cost-effective alternative for rural electrification. He also discusses Uzbekistan's push toward clean energy investments, including the development of local solar manufacturing and a new BYD electric vehicle assembly plant. The episode closes with a look at Uzbekistan's cultural richness, its emerging role as an energy leader in Central Asia, and why it's a fascinating place to visit.

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