According to the Agency of Statistics on Industrial Production, gas production in Uzbekistan dropped to 3.89 billion cubic meters in March 2024, a 6.5% decrease compared to March 2023. In comparison, in March 2019, production was at 5.26 billion cubic meters, showing a significant decline over the past five years.
In the first quarter of 2024, gas production amounted to 11.6 billion cubic meters, a 5.9% decrease from the same period last year. The decrease in gas production has also affected other sectors such as coal, oil, and petroleum products.
Coal production increased by 0.9% in March compared to the previous year, reaching 309 thousand tons. However, quarterly production decreased by 2% to 968.9 thousand tons. Oil production decreased to 60.6 thousand tons, an 11.1% drop from March 2023.
Despite the challenges in the gas and oil sector, there has been a positive trend in electricity generation. In March, electricity production rose to 6.62 billion kWh, an increase of 208.6 million kWh compared to the previous year. The majority of electricity in the country is generated by thermal power stations, but there is a shift towards renewable energy sources.
In conclusion, while Uzbekistan faces challenges in its gas and oil production, there are opportunities for growth in the renewable energy sector. The government and companies like "Uzbekneftegaz" are investing in increasing gas production to overcome the current decline and ensure energy security for the country.
