QAZAQ GREEN.  A new report jointly released by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the Government of Georgia outlines a strategic path for the country to reduce its dependence on fossil fuel imports and hydropower by accelerating the deployment of renewable energy sources.

Titled Energy Transition Assessment: Georgia, the report emphasizes the untapped potential of wind and solar energy in the country. While Georgia boasts an estimated 15 gigawatts (GW) of hydropower capacity, only about a quarter has been developed. Additionally, the assessment identifies approximately 4 GW of wind and 4.5 GW of solar photovoltaic (PV) potential that remain largely unexploited.

Currently, domestic energy production covers less than 25% of Georgia’s total energy demand, forcing the country to rely heavily on imported fossil fuels. The report argues that shifting towards locally generated renewable energy could dramatically enhance Georgia’s energy security, reduce its energy trade deficit, and increase its competitiveness on both regional and global scales.

“Moving from import dependence to energy abundance is well within reach for Georgia,” said IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera. “This assessment supports the country’s pathway toward its 2030 climate and energy commitments by identifying targeted, cost-effective actions that can enhance energy security, reduce the energy trade deficit, and deliver significant socio-economic benefits.”

Developed in collaboration with Georgia’s Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development, the report sets out a series of short- to medium-term measures to accelerate the transition. These include improving grid flexibility, expanding access to finance, and involving municipalities and local communities in the energy transformation process.

The assessment is also intended to support the development of Georgia’s upcoming Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0), aligning its energy policies with the country’s newly adopted National Climate and Energy Plan.

Other key recommendations include establishing local renewable energy value chains, enhancing technical expertise, and implementing a just transition framework to ensure equitable outcomes. The report also stresses the need for targeted incentives to decarbonise the transport sector and a comprehensive strategy for reducing emissions in end-use sectors, particularly heating and cooling.

IRENA reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Georgia to help implement the recommendations and build a resilient, sustainable energy future.