The construction of the photovoltaic (PV) field of the Buka Solar project in Tashkent Region, Uzbekistan, was completed on 28 June. This project, dubbed as the "Pomegranate Sunshine Station" by local residents, was undertaken by Dongfang Electric Corporation (DEC). To mark the milestone, DEC and China Datang hosted a public Open Day themed "Championing the China–Central Asia Spirit: Working Together for a Brighter Future" at the project site.
The event brought together representatives from the Confucius Institute at Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, Narodnoe Slovo newspaper, Tashkent State Technical University, local primary schools, and village communities, showcasing strong support from educational, media, and grassroots sectors.
During the event, DEC and China Datang unveiled the Silk Road Energy Joint Science and Technology Innovation Center – PV Research Base, underscoring the Center's solid, step-by-step progress in Uzbekistan. By pooling resources and complementary strengths, the partners will deepen collaboration in technology innovation and talent cultivation.
A "China Bookshelf" ceremony followed, with new Chinese titles formally stocked and donated to local students, creating a literary bridge for bilateral knowledge and cultural exchange. The collection spans China's socioeconomic development, literature and the arts, scientific advances, and Chinese-language learning.
The gathering also saw the inauguration of the Silk Road Joint Innovation Center New Energy Children's Science Base. Industry experts delivered lively classes that blended theory, hands-on practice and interactive demonstrations, offering local youngsters an engaging introduction to renewable-energy science.
With rows of solar panels unfurling like a blue sea, green energy and ancient civilization converge here to spark fresh dynamism. Bathed in sunlight, the "Pomegranate Sunshine Station" is already bearing fruitful results.
Background
Construction of the Buka Solar Project began in October 2024, with the first phase connecting to the grid three months later—a record pace for large-scale PV in Uzbekistan. Located near the capital, Tashkent, the plant will generate more than 570 GWh annually once fully operational, saving over 160,000 tonnes of standard coal and cutting about 440,000 tonnes of carbon-dioxide emissions each year. The project will significantly ease Tashkent's power shortage and accelerate the nation's energy transition.
