Uzbekistan has been setting historical summer records for electricity consumption and generation for the fifth consecutive day, the Ministry of Energy reported.
On July 17, daily electricity consumption reached a record high of 293.4 million kWh, exceeding last summer's peak by 20.8 million kWh (7.6%).
Electricity generation in the daily power system amounted to 296.1 million kWh, surpassing the previous day's record by 0.7 million kWh (0.24%).
Including small-capacity solar photovoltaic stations, total electricity generation on July 17 exceeded 300 million kWh for the first time, reaching 305 million kWh. This is 9.6 million kWh (3.2%) more than the previous day's figure.
Record figures have been recorded since July 13. Over five days, daily consumption increased by 14.8 million kWh — from 278.6 million to 293.4 million kWh. Generation rose by 14.6 million kWh — from 281.5 million to 296.1 million kWh.
According to the Ministry of Energy, dispatch services are monitoring network loads and the technical condition of power lines and transformers in real time.
“When necessary, prompt measures are taken to prevent equipment overload and overheating, including load redistribution. This helps prevent technical failures and major outages, ensuring stable operation of the power system,” the statement said.
Against the backdrop of high consumption, emergency recovery teams of energy enterprises have been put on enhanced duty.
On July 17, due to faults in power grids, temporary power outages occurred in parts of Tashkent's Mirzo Ulugbek, Almazar, Shaykhontohur, Yashnobod, Yunusabad, Yakkasaray, Chilanzar, Sergeli, and Mirobod districts, as well as in Zangiata and Tashkent districts of Tashkent region.
According to the ministry, more than 8,200 consumers were temporarily left without electricity due to system failures.
The Ministry of Energy attributed the faults to hot weather, equipment overheating, and a sharp increase in network load due to massive use of air conditioners and other household appliances. In some cases, dispatchers introduced short-term restrictions to prevent major accidents.
The ministry urged consumers to use electricity rationally and unplug appliances when not needed. These measures, it said, would help reduce network load and significantly lower the risk of accidents and outages.
Power outages are causing additional costs for businesses. One chain store told Gazeta that during blackouts, dairy products and goods requiring low temperatures have to be transported to another outlet.
Previously, the store used fuel-powered generators, but prolonged operation generates strong noise and requires large fuel expenses. Therefore, in some cases, moving products is a more economically viable solution.
Another grocery store reported that electricity is cut off for about two hours daily. Outlets without personal generators are forced to rent or temporarily connect them, incurring significant costs for both fuel and equipment rental.
Source: www.gazeta.uz