The project was also designed with rigorous environmental and social safeguards and includes a Livelihood Restoration Programme and Resettlement Action Plan, which provides new community infrastructure, including a school and recreational areas.
Sebzor is also the first globally certified project under the Hydropower Sustainability Standard, achieving Gold Certification in March 2023 – cementing its leadership in environmental, social, and governance development.
“This project demonstrates what is possible when local leadership aligns with international cooperation to achieve transformative impact,” says Daler Juma, Tajikistan’s Minister of Energy and Water Resources.
Strengthening the regional grid: Substations and transmission lines
Two additional milestones were celebrated during the inauguration ceremony: the commissioning of the EU-funded 35/110 kV Vomar Substation and PATRIP Foundation-financed 53km Khorog-Vomar Transmission Line; and the ground-breaking ceremony for the EU-funded 35/110 kV Qozideh Substation and 42km Vomar-Voznavd Transmission Line.
These investments in grid infrastructure will significantly improve power quality, reduce technical losses, and enhance climate resilience in a region prone to seasonal access challenges.
“Building reliable, modern energy systems in border regions is vital for fostering stability and shared prosperity,” said Alexander Bohr, Chairman of the PATRIP Foundation. “We are pleased to contribute to infrastructure that will bring long-term benefit to these remote border communities.”
“Today’s launch reflects the European Union’s strong and continued commitment to climate resilience, inclusive development, and energy access,” said Ambassador Raimundas Karoblis, Head of the EU Delegation to Tajikistan. “Together with our partners, we are proud to invest in infrastructure that empowers communities.”