The European Union’s Global Gateway strategy reached a key milestone with the inauguration of the Sebzor hydropower plant in Tajikistan’s remote Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO), promising more reliable, sustainable electricity for over 430,000 people across rural Tajikistan and northern Afghanistan.
The inauguration ceremony was led by Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and attended by senior international development partners, including European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Síkela.
“The Sebzor hydropower plant, in line with the EU’s Global Gateway investment strategy, is a great illustration of how a sustainable infrastructure project transforms a whole region,” said Síkela. “It strengthens energy security, unlocks opportunities for local communities and businesses, promotes economic growth, and protects people’s health and the environment.”
Situated over 2,500 meters above sea level in Roshtqala district, the 11-megawatt run-of-river plant is expected to produce more than 76 million kilowatt-hours of renewable electricity annually, cutting over 45,000 metric tons of CO₂ emissions each year. The plant is connected to the grid to enhance power stability throughout GBAO and enable electricity exports to northern Afghanistan.
Sebzor is the world’s first project to receive certification under the Hydropower Sustainability Standard, adhering to global environmental, social, and governance (ESG) benchmarks. As part of the EU’s Team Europe Initiative on Water, Energy, and Climate Change, the facility also promotes regional collaboration on water management and supports the shift toward green energy.
The inauguration also marked the opening of additional EU-supported rural electrification infrastructure. The newly commissioned 110/35/10 kV Jangal Substation in Rushan District and 53 kilometers of upgraded transmission lines between Khorog and Vomar will extend electricity access to around 300,000 people, public services, and businesses. Groundbreaking was also held for a new 110/35 kV Qozideh Substation in Ishkashim District and a 42-kilometer line between Vomar and Voznavd.
Beyond energy, the Sebzor project supports long-term social development. A new secondary school for 240 students was inaugurated in Barjangal settlement, alongside community infrastructure and livelihood programs, including support for entrepreneurship and recreational facilities.
The project is financed through a Team Europe approach by the European Union, the German government via KfW Development Bank, and the PATRIP Foundation through the Aga Khan Foundation (UK). All components are implemented by Pamir Energy Company.
Global Gateway is the European Union’s strategy aimed at narrowing the global investment gap by supporting sustainable and secure infrastructure development across sectors such as energy, transport, digital technology, education, and healthcare. The strategy aims to mobilize up to €300bn in investments between 2021 and 2027 through a collaborative Team Europe approach, creating lasting connections and boosting resilience in partner countries.
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