HYDROPOWER, SOLAR, AND WIND ENERGY IN AZERBAIJAN’S GREEN ENERGY TRANSITION: AT THE INTERSECTION OF ENERGY SECURITY, SUSTAINABILITY, AND POLITICAL-ECONOMIC CONSTRAINTS

Abstract

Azerbaijan is prioritizing a sustainable, resilient, and diverse energy system, considering the increase in global climate issues and political changes. Following the global decarbonization actions, Azerbaijan is also moving towards greener energy technology. As part of its green transition and long-term energy plans, Azerbaijan is strictly focusing on expansion of renewable energy sources such as hydropower, solar and wind energy. Additionally, biomass, geothermal and hydrogen energy sources are also important to note as potential renewable energy sources. This paper mainly focuses on green energy sources such as hydroelectricity, solar, and wind that are considered the main alternative energy sources, allowing Azerbaijan to shift to low-carbon energy. Moreover, the paper also indicates that other renewable energy sources, such as bioenergy and geothermal, can play an important role in energy sector of Azerbaijan. This study makes a deep dive research on how these sources can help Azerbaijan on energy transition following energy security strategy, sustainability goals and system challenges. Hydropower, solar, and wind are jointly leading the shift from a hydrocarbon-based energy system to one with lower CO2 emissions in Azerbaijan. Moreover, this study highlights Azerbaijan’s potential for new renewable energy sources. Alongside the importance of solar and wind energy in the country’s energy diversification, this paper also focuses on the role of hydropower in balancing fluctuations in solar and wind energy. Despite the strong potential of renewable energy sources, the paper also discusses the institutional, infrastructure, and economic challenges, as well as Azerbaijan's reliance on hydrocarbon revenues, that it faces. Finally, the study concludes that Azerbaijan needs targeted policy reforms, investment in infrastructure, and better integration of renewable energies to form a balanced and resilient energy transition. Furthermore, more thorough research and approaches are needed to support the green transition.