Journal of Engineering Systems and Digital Innovation Tashkent Institute of Chemical Technology
Research Articles

Energy Partnerships and Technology Transfer in Uzbekistan: Comparison of Russian and Chinese Engagement

  • Bobur Akmalov ✉ Toshkent kimyo-texnologiya instituti, Uzbekistan
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21478587
Received: 2 August 2026 Accepted: 13 October 2026 Published: 14 October 2026
The full text of this article is available to subscribers.

Abstract

Uzbekistan's energy transition involves cooperation with several external partners, including Russia in gas and nuclear energy and China in renewable-energy projects, equipment and related training. This article examines how such partnerships can contribute to energy-system development and domestic technical capability, while identifying which longer-term service and technology arrangements require closer assessment. A structured documentary comparison distinguishes publicly reported projects and educational initiatives from contractual terms and capability outcomes not disclosed in the available sources. The evidence documents different but potentially complementary roles for Russian and Chinese partners. It does not establish that Uzbekistan is subject to dual-source technological lock-in or that either partner's projects are operationally incompatible. Building on a three-layer framework and recent research on energy resilience and technology learning, the article outlines a qualitative appraisal approach covering maintenance options, critical components, data governance and demonstrable local skills. The proposed approach would allow future project assessments to test potential dependencies alongside investment, reliability and technology-transfer benefits. The contribution is a transparent framework for evidence-based policy appraisal, not an empirical ranking of external partners.

Keywords

  • Uzbekistan
  • energy cooperation
  • energy security
  • Russia
  • China
  • technology transfer
  • human capital
  • life-cycle appraisal

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