In 2021, Uzbekistan’s energy minister declared the country produces enough natural gas to meet domestic demand three times over. However, years of declining production have painted a different reality.
Across the gas-rich nation, many citizens rely on coal, firewood, and even animal manure to heat their homes and cook meals. Much of the electricity supplied to the national grid is generated by coal-powered plants.
Environmental and Health Concerns
Experts and environmental activists warn of the severe consequences. Coal, the most carbon-intensive fossil fuel, significantly contributes to climate change. Meanwhile, illegal tree cutting for firewood has led to widespread deforestation.
“The government has failed to provide viable alternatives,” say critics. Every winter, the problem worsens as energy demand surges and natural gas remains in short supply.
Abdusalom Ergashev, an activist in Ferghana, highlights the issue’s severity. “Since late November, it’s been cold, and gas supply problems affect not only villages but cities, too,” he said. “In my neighborhood, gas pressure drops so low that stoves don’t even warm up. People resort to burning coal, animal dung, and even chopping down fruit trees.”
The illegal felling of trees has become so rampant that stricter penalties were introduced in February. Individuals convicted of the crime now face fines of up to 17 million soms ($1,300) and must plant 100 saplings per tree felled.
Winter Preparations and Fuel Usage
For many rural households, winter preparation begins months in advance. Families stockpile firewood, collect and dry manure, and purchase coal. Walnut shells, fruit pits, and even cotton stalks serve as additional fuel sources.
The average household burns approximately 1.5 tons of coal each winter, supplemented by other fuels. This reliance on coal and biomass leads to heavy smoke pollution, affecting both the environment and public health.
Popular vlogger Akmal Isomiddinov shared his experience: “While driving through Ferghana, even with the windows closed, the smell of smoke was suffocating. This isn’t just a local problem—it’s the same across 90 percent of Uzbekistan.”
Coal Rising Amid Declining Gas Production
Despite holding an estimated 1.8 trillion cubic meters of proven natural gas reserves, Uzbekistan’s output has steadily declined. The country produced nearly 39 billion cubic meters (bcm) of natural gas in the first 10 months of 2024, a 4.8 percent drop from the previous year. In 2018, production was 61.6 bcm, but by 2023, it had fallen to 46.7 bcm—a 24 percent decline over five years.
Government officials attribute the drop to depleted deposits and the need for advanced drilling technologies. They aim to boost production to 62 bcm by 2030, slightly exceeding 2018 levels.
In the interim, authorities have turned to coal. Reports suggest that thousands of state-run schools, kindergartens, and medical facilities were ordered to switch from gas to coal in 2023.
Annual coal production has climbed steadily, increasing from less than 4 million tons in 2016 to 6.5 million tons in 2023. The government plans to further raise coal output to 10 million tons by 2025.
Efforts to Mitigate Climate Impact
Amid growing concerns over climate change, the Uzbek government emphasizes its investment in green energy. Initiatives include subsidies for electric vehicles, planting 200 million trees nationwide, and increasing renewable energy projects to address air pollution and environmental damage.
While these measures are steps toward sustainability, the country’s reliance on coal as a temporary solution raises pressing questions about balancing immediate energy needs with long-term environmental goals.
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