On 4 June, in Ashgbat A high-level United Nations round table on “Supporting Policy Making and National Capacity towards Green Energy Transition in Turkmenistan” brought together key stakeholders to discuss the country’s future in sustainable energy. The event, moderated by UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko, was held as part of the International Scientific and Practical Conference on “Environmental Aspects of Implementing Innovative Technologies in the Development of Hydrocarbon Fields.”
The round table served as an open platform for dialogue among government officials, international partners, academics, and young SDG Ambassadors, offering a timely opportunity to explore national priorities, policy reform, and practical steps needed to move toward a greener, more resilient energy system.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Shlapachenko underscored that transitioning to green energy is not only a necessity to combat climate change—it is also a unique opportunity to modernize Turkmenistan’s economy, improve public health, and create new jobs. “It’s about investing in a future that is cleaner, more inclusive, and more resilient,” he said.
He also highlighted key initiatives launched under the UN-Turkmenistan Strategic Advisory Board, including the establishment of a Regional Center for Climate Technologies in Central Asia, support for a just green energy transition, and actions aimed at reducing methane emissions in the oil and gas sector.
He also shared that the UN Country Team has secured 250,000 dollars in seed funding from the Joint SDG Fund to initiate the UN Joint Programme on Green Energy Transition in Turkmenistan.
Discussions throughout the day emphasized the importance of aligning energy reforms with Turkmenistan’s broader national strategies—most notably the Presidential Programme 2022–2028 and climate commitments made at the 2023 SDG Summit. According to a recent UN-led analysis, the country would need to invest approximately 1% of GDP annually between 2026 and 2030 to reduce methane emissions and achieve a target of 10% renewable energy share in final energy consumption.
The engagement of Turkmenistan’s SDG Ambassadors brought a dynamic youth perspective to the discussions. They called for inclusive climate policies, greater space for innovation, and stronger support for civic engagement—underlining the role of young people as drivers of sustainable change.
The round table concluded with a shared commitment to accelerate the green energy transition in Turkmenistan through collaborative action, sound policymaking, and continued partnership at both national and international levels.
