Nargiz Garajayeva: Liberated territories will contribute to development of Azerbaijan's green economy

Azerbaijan plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2050 in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and establish a zero-emissions zone in the liberated territories, Nargiz Garajayeva, Senior Adviser to the Special Representation of the President of Azerbaijan in the districts of Jabrayil, Gubadli, and Zangilan, said during an event held within the framework of World Urban Forum 13 in Baku.

Report quotes her as saying the liberated territories have been designated as "green energy zones" and are viewed as a key element of the national program for transitioning to alternative energy sources and achieving carbon neutrality. As part of this strategy, the country intends to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2050 and create a zero-emissions territory.

Garajayeva emphasized that the region"s natural potential is being actively utilized to develop a sustainable and green economy. In particular, water resources in Zangilan and Gubadli are being used to generate clean energy. Four small hydroelectric power plants with a total capacity of 42 MW have already been built on the Okhchuchay River, which will fully supply the city of Zangilan with electricity.

She also highlighted the region's significant solar energy potential. Thanks to the high number of sunny days and strong solar radiation levels, related projects are being implemented: a 240 MW solar power plant is under construction in the Jabrayil District, while additional solar plants with a combined capacity of 100 MW are also planned.

In addition, the Khudafarin Hydroelectric Complex and Dostlug Hydroelectric Complex on the Araz River are contributing to the development of green energy in Eastern Zangazur.

According to the representative, these initiatives fully align with the national strategy of transforming the region into a green energy hub, while the protection of natural resources, water basins, and biodiversity remains a priority within the country's sustainable development agenda.