Azerbaijan and China make green cooperation a priority

In recent years, green energy has become one of the fastest-growing sectors in Azerbaijan, opening new horizons for international cooperation. Driven by its commitment to sustainability and energy security, the country is actively building partnerships with global leaders in this field. One such partner is China, which, with its expertise and technology, can significantly contribute to Azerbaijan's ambitious plans for renewable energy development. This partnership not only strengthens economic ties but also supports global efforts to combat climate change.

During an interview with China's CGTN TV on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev expressed his intention to enhance cooperation with China in the field of green energy. The decision to expand bilateral collaboration in this area stems from Azerbaijan's immense potential for renewable energy and China's leading technological achievements. "That's why we need to join forces," Aliyev emphasized.

Azerbaijan's potential in green energy is indeed significant. Recently signed agreements are set to secure investments for the production of 22 GW of renewable energy, both onshore and offshore, enabling Azerbaijan to become a green energy exporter. However, achieving these goals requires a reliable partner like China.

According to a Global Energy Monitor (GEM) study published by The Guardian, China leads the world in alternative energy. The scale of wind and solar power construction in China is nearly double that of the rest of the world combined. The report states that China plans to build 180 GW of solar power and 159 GW of wind power. From March 2023 to March 2024, China installed more solar capacity than in the previous three years combined.

China's extensive experience in solar and wind technology can drive the growth of energy production in Azerbaijan, establish modern energy systems, and diversify the regional energy market. Chinese companies are also poised to participate in green projects in Azerbaijan, collaborating with the International Renewable Energy Agency and other international organizations.
A major step in deepening this cooperation was the signing of the joint declaration on establishing a strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and China at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Astana. This document opened a new chapter in the development of relations between the two countries, with the green transition becoming one of the key areas of cooperation.

In June last year, Azerbaijan's Ministry of Energy and Chinese company China Gezhouba Group signed a memorandum to implement renewable energy projects with a capacity of 2 GW. Work has already begun on developing solar, onshore and offshore wind power capacities, energy storage, and integrated smart energy systems. Plans also include the production of green hydrogen. Dongfang, another Chinese company, will participate in building the 230 MW Garadagh solar power plant and a 1,280 MW thermal power plant, which are scheduled to begin operations in Azerbaijan city Mingachevir in 2025.

Currently, Chinese companies are showing interest in large-scale renewable energy projects in Azerbaijan. Various areas are being explored, including the creation of green energy corridors, green energy exports, and the production and transportation of green hydrogen and ammonia.

In May, Azerbaijani Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov met with a Chinese delegation led by Song Hailiang, chairman of China Energy Engineering Group Co Ltd. The meeting focused on renewable energy cooperation and the involvement of Chinese companies at COP29. Both parties agreed to enhance collaboration and establish a Working Group to explore new avenues for cooperation.

Renewable energy cooperation was also discussed during a meeting between Azerbaijan's Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov and a Chinese delegation led by Shen Ying, deputy executive chairman of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce. Meanwhile, an Azerbaijani delegation headed by Deputy Minister of Energy Orkhan Zeynalov visited China to participate in the second meeting of the working group between Azerbaijan's Ministry of Energy and China Energy Engineering Group Co Ltd. The Chinese partners were introduced to the potential of Azerbaijan's energy corridors and opportunities for connection to renewable energy projects.

The Renewable Energy Agency of Azerbaijan's Ministry of Energy is considering cooperation with Chinese companies to introduce battery and hydro-pumping storage technologies. Azerbaijan aims to increase the share of renewables in its energy mix to 30-33 percent in the coming years, and China's expertise in energy storage could be invaluable. China remains a leader in patenting green technologies across the Eurasian region.

The joint green energy projects between Azerbaijan and China are significant not only for the two countries but for the entire region. They help create new jobs, stimulate economic development, and support the transition to a low-carbon economy. This partnership serves as an example of how sustainable solutions can be achieved through international cooperation, pooling resources and knowledge. In the lead-up to COP29, which will take place in Baku from November 11 to 22, 2024, both countries are actively working on advancing green energy. This event will serve as an additional incentive for implementing new ambitious projects in this field, further strengthening cooperation between Azerbaijan and China.

Seymur Mammadov is a journalist based in Azerbaijan. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

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