In a historic stride for Azerbaijan’s renewable energy sector, Citaglobal Bhd (Citaglobal) on Saturday (16 November) signed a framework agreement with the Port of Baku to establish a 5.4 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) facility integrated with a state-of-the-art Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). This initiative, the nation’s first commercial renewable energy project, heralds a new chapter in Azerbaijan’s pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.
The groundbreaking project is spearheaded by Tiza Green Energy LLC, a joint venture between Tiza Global Azerbaijan LLC and Citaglobal Renewable Energy Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Malaysia’s Citaglobal. The agreement was formalised during COP 29’s Green Energy Day, an event focused on showcasing cutting-edge energy solutions, advancing global climate goals, and supporting Azerbaijan’s ambitious target of increasing the share of renewable energy in its energy mix to over 60 per cent by 2050. Present at the signing were Datuk Dr. Ching Thoo a/l Kim, secretary general of Malaysia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, and His Excellency Ambassador Ahmad Kamrizamil Mohd Riza of Malaysia.
“This agreement marks a major milestone in advancing Azerbaijan’s renewable energy landscape with an innovative solution that seamlessly integrates solar power and BESS technology,” said Tan Sri Dr Norza Zakaria, president of Tiza Green Energy LLC and executive chairman and president of Citaglobal Berhad.
He added, “The solution that we are implementing not only maximises clean energy use on-site but does so at a cost-competitive tariff, demonstrating our shared commitment to sustainable, cost-effective energy solutions.”
A Green Energy Milestone
Supported by a 21-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), the project guarantees a fixed tariff, providing the Port of Baku with stable and predictable energy costs. Once operational, the solar-powered facility is expected to meet the port’s entire annual electricity demand, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Phase 1 of the project will feature rooftop solar PV installations, followed by ground-mounted systems and Citaglobal’s MYBESS solution deployment. This technology will allow the port to store surplus energy and optimise usage during peak demand, minimising reliance on the grid and maximising efficiency.
“As the first Green Port in the Caspian region since 2019, we have implemented significant measures to minimise our environmental impact. Our strategy is to achieve zero emissions by 2035, and I am confident that our partnership with Tiza Green Energy will position us as leaders in sustainable practices, significantly reducing our Scope 2 emissions,” stated Dr Taleh Ziyadov, director-general of the Port of Baku.
“The integration of solar and BESS technology positions us as leaders in sustainable practices, reducing Scope 2 emissions and supporting economic and environmental stewardship.”
Port of Baku: A Sustainability Leader
Spanning 400 hectares and strategically located 70 kilometres from Azerbaijan’s capital, the Port of Baku is a vital logistics hub in the Eurasian region. It serves as a key node on the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route and is currently expanding to increase its annual throughput to 25 million tons.
The port’s 2035 Climate Action Plan emphasises emissions reduction, energy efficiency, and climate risk mitigation. This solar-powered initiative aligns with the plan and cements the Port of Baku’s reputation as the first Green Port in the Caspian region since 2019.
A Model for the Future
While modest in capacity, the project’s innovative integration of solar energy, BESS, and grid connectivity sets a benchmark for renewable energy adoption. It provides a replicable model for other facilities in Azerbaijan, enhancing energy security and promoting sustainability.
As COP 29 host, Baku’s leadership in addressing climate change and embracing renewable energy is on full display. This partnership not only advances Azerbaijan’s renewable energy goals but also reaffirms its role as a pioneer in global climate action. 
