DUSHANBE, February 9, 2011, Asia-Plus  -- Iran plans to expand its energy projects in Tajikistan, Iranian Ambassador to Tajikistan Ali-Asghar Sherdoust told reporters in Dushanbe on February 8.

According to him, Iran will build the 170 MW hydroelectric power plant (HPP) in Ayni district, Sughd province.

Construction of the hydropower plant in Ayni district will start upon completion of construction of the 220 MW Sangtuda-2 HPP on the Vakhsh River, which is expected to be introduced into operation until September this year, Iranian diplomat noted.

Sherdoust also noted that his country was currently studying the issue of construction of two hydropower plants – Nourobod-1 and Nourobod-2 -- in eastern Tajikistan.  The Iranian Embassy in Dushanbe has provided all necessary documents for consideration to the Iranian government and this issue is currently under consideration, Sherdoust said.