Energy Minister: The utilization of electrification opportunities by all countries is of great importance for a just energy transition

Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov delivered a speech at Global Electrification Ministerial & Forum held in Antalya as part of COP31 Energy and Transport Day.

It was emphasized that electrification is shaping a new architecture for the energy transition, that the supply of clean electricity contributes to reducing emissions and strengthening energy security, and that Türkiye's 35% by 2035 initiative has brought electrification to the forefront of the global agenda. It was noted that ensuring all countries can benefit from the opportunities offered by electrification is essential for a just and equitable energy transition and sustainable development. The importance of strengthening cooperation within the framework of COP31 to bridge the gaps between countries' ambitions and their access to energy, financing and technological capabilities was also highlighted.

It was stated that, in line with the development strategy set out by President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan is pursuing its objectives of energy security, a clean environment and green growth in conjunction with the transition towards a low-carbon economy. It was noted that the development of approximately 8 GW of wind and solar power capacity by 2032, improvements in energy efficiency, the expansion of electrification across various sectors, including heating and transport, and the development of Garabagh, East Zangezur and Nakhchivan as green energy zones will contribute to increasing the share of electricity in final energy consumption.

The Minister highlighted the opportunities offered by green energy corridors to meet growing electricity demand through clean energy resources beyond national borders. He stated that Azerbaijan aims to open up new markets for the region's clean energy resources and contribute to the electrification targets of partner countries through diversified corridors connecting the South Caucasus, Central Asia, Türkiye and Europe. It was emphasized that these projects also provide practical opportunities to advance the global 35% by 2035 target.

It was noted that the Azerbaijan-Türkiye energy partnership is strengthening the regional foundations for electrification and that the political trust between the two countries plays a significant role in developing new energy markets and economic ties. It was further emphasized that following up on the initiatives launched in Baku to strengthen the financial foundations of cooperation on the energy transition with concrete actions under the electrification agenda in Antalya reinforces confidence in international cooperation.