How a disputed hydropower hub fits into Azerbaijan’s COP29 agenda

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🗞️ Driving the news: Azerbaijan is pushing to make Nagorno-Karabakh a "Green Silicon Valley" after winning control of the region
• It plans to develop 40 new hydropower plants, alongside wind and solar projects, as part of its green energy strategy ahead of hosting COP29

🔭 The context: Azerbaijan aims to boost its renewable energy share to 30% by 2030 and eventually become an exporter of green energy
• Collaborations with international companies, like BP and ACWA Power, are key to these efforts
• However, the rapid development raises concerns over environmental impacts, with critics questioning the lack of proper assessments

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The hydropower projects in Nagorno-Karabakh could play a significant role in Azerbaijan's energy transition, but the environmental risks need careful management
• The country's actions also serve geopolitical purposes, legitimizing its control over the disputed region.

⏭️ What's next: Azerbaijan's ambitious green plans, including COP29 hosting, aim to reshape its international image, but unresolved tensions with Armenia and environmental challenges could complicate progress

💬 One quote: “Karabakh will be the new Silicon Valley, but in a green way,” said Nargiz Hajiyeva, a political scientist at Azerbaijan State University of Economics

📈 One stat: Azerbaijan plans to generate 10,000 megawatts of green energy from Nagorno-Karabakh, including hydro, solar, and wind

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