Pamir Energy Launches the Sebzor Hydropower Plant

 

The 11-megawatt Sebzor Hydropower Plant was recently commissioned in the Roshtqala district of Viloyati Mukhtori Kuhistoni Badakhshan (VMKB). This landmark project, spearheaded by Pamir Energy, a company of Industrial Promotion Services (IPS), the industrial and infrastructure arm of AKFED, marks a significant step toward energy security and sustainable development in one of Tajikistan’s most remote regions. The inauguration, attended by high-profile dignitaries from AKFED, Tajikistan’s leadership, the European Union Ambassador, the German Ambassador, and KfW Development Bank representatives, highlighted the power of international partnerships. Co-funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the European Union through KfW, the project aligns with the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, emphasising sustainable infrastructure and regional cooperation.

The ceremony also included the groundbreaking for a new secondary school in Barjangal, accommodating 240 students, as part of the Sebzor Resettlement Action Plan, showcasing the project’s commitment to holistic community development.

Situated over 2,500 meters above sea level, the Sebzor Hydropower Plant is a run-of-river facility equipped with three vertical-axis Pelton turbines, delivering a combined capacity of 11 megawatts. With a design flow of 12 cubic meters per second and a net head exceeding 110 meters, the plant is projected to produce over 76 million kilowatt-hours of renewable energy annually. This output will reduce carbon emissions by approximately 45,000 metric tons each year, bolstering Tajikistan’s green energy ambitions.

The Sebzor Hydropower Plant, perched at 2,500 meters above sea level, to generate 11 MW of clean energy through a run-of-river design powered by Pelton turbines

The plant strengthens the regional grid, enhancing electricity reliability for VMKB’s 220,000 residents and supporting cross-border energy exports to northern Afghanistan, improving energy access for over 430,000 people in the region.

“As a partner in Tajikistan’s first public-private energy initiative, AKFED is proud that Pamir Energy has successfully implemented such a state-of-the-art infrastructure project in one of the country’s most challenging environments,” said Galeb Gulam, Global Head of the Industrial Promotion Services. “We are grateful to the Government of Tajikistan, the European Union, and the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany for advancing rural electrification in Tajikistan through Sebzor.”

“This project is a game-changer for VMKB, not only providing clean energy but also fostering economic growth and resilience in a challenging environment,” said a representative from Pamir Energy. “Through partnerships with the Government of Tajikistan, the EU, and Germany, we’ve created a model for sustainable development.”

Beyond energy production, Sebzor is a cornerstone of Tajikistan’s green energy agenda, promoting carbon neutrality and energy independence. The project’s Livelihood Restoration Program has empowered local communities through entrepreneurship initiatives, recreational facilities, and educational infrastructure. Its Gold Certification under the Hydropower Sustainability Standard, the first globally, underscores its adherence to top-tier environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards.

This project sets a precedent for responsible, inclusive infrastructure, paving the way for Tajikistan’s clean energy transition and inspiring sustainable development worldwide.

By Metrine Papa

Senior Regional Communications Officer, East Africa