Uzbekistan Suspends New Natural Gas Connections for Residential and Commercial Buildings

Uzbekistan Implements Gas Connection Suspension

Uzbekistan has announced a suspension on the issuance of technical permits for new natural gas connections in residential and commercial buildings. The measure, announced by Minister of Energy Jurabek Mirzamahmudov on October 28, 2025, applies specifically to properties that utilize gas solely for heating or cooking purposes. Existing buildings already connected to the gas network will not be affected by this new policy. However, gas connections for industrial production, where gas is used to create 'added value,' will continue to be permitted.

Addressing Declining Production and Rising Demand

This decision comes as Uzbekistan faces a continued decline in its domestic natural gas output and a concurrent rise in energy demand. Natural gas production in the country fell by 4.2% in the first two months of 2025 compared to the same period last year, continuing a trend that saw output drop from 61.59 billion cubic meters in 2018 to 44.59 billion cubic meters in 2024. Uzbekistan transitioned to a net importer of natural gas in 2023, highlighting the growing imbalance between supply and demand. The government has indicated that the rational use of resources has become a national priority, partly due to the country's reliance on certain external energy supplies.

Promoting Alternative Energy Solutions and Efficiency

In response to the suspension, new developments will see gas stoves replaced with electric alternatives, and heating will be provided through centralized or local boiler systems. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance energy efficiency and diversify the country's energy mix. A presidential decree, 'On Fundamental Reforms in the Heating Energy Supply Sector and Measures to Improve Energy Efficiency of Buildings' (PP-100), signed on March 11, 2025, mandates significant changes. Starting June 1, 2025, all new and renovated buildings are required to install solar panels, water heaters, and heat pumps, alongside external and roof heat insulation.

Long-Term Energy Strategy and Modernization Efforts

The suspension of new gas connections aligns with Uzbekistan's long-term energy strategy, which includes phasing out natural gas exports by 2025 to prioritize domestic consumption and petrochemical production. The country aims to achieve a renewable energy capacity of 27 GW and increase the renewable share in electricity production to 40% by 2030, with targets to reduce natural gas consumption by 25 billion cubic meters and carbon emissions by 34 million tonnes. Significant investments are planned for modernizing the heating infrastructure, including upgrading 103 outdated boiler houses and 1,600 kilometers of heating networks, and expanding centralized heating coverage from 37% to 58% by 2030. These comprehensive reforms are designed to address persistent energy shortages, particularly during harsh winters, and ensure a more sustainable energy future for Uzbekistan.