On 25 September 2025, the leadership of Uzbekneftegaz, led by Chairman of the Board Bakhodirjon Sidikov, met Dr Marit Brommer, Director-General of the International Geothermal Association (IGA), in Tashkent.
The talks covered electricity generation, heat for homes and industry, agriculture, and one idea that fits Uzbekistan especially well: giving idle oil and gas wells a second life for geothermal energy. Sidikov described geothermal as a way to strengthen energy security, diversify supply and lower the country’s carbon footprint.
Brommer said that with a sound roadmap, Uzbekistan could become a regional leader in geothermal development.
A working group and a roadmap
The two sides agreed to form a joint IGA–Uzbekneftegaz working group. It will apply international experience, build links between geothermal and the oil and gas sector, and draft a roadmap for future geothermal projects in Uzbekistan, with attention to environmental protection and the sustainable use of natural resources.
Talks at the Ministry of Mining Industry and Geology
The same week, an IGA delegation held talks at the Ministry of Mining Industry and Geology, led by First Deputy Minister Feruza Khamidova. The IGA presented its work and projects. The ministry pointed to Uzbekistan’s significant geothermal potential and said it was ready to cooperate on promising projects. No agreements were announced at that meeting.
Why it matters
Wells, drilling crews and subsurface data are the most expensive parts of a geothermal project. Uzbekistan already has all three in its oil and gas industry. A roadmap that connects the two sectors could shorten the path from potential to first projects.
