The era of alternative energy is coming forth in Azerbaijan, the country’s Energy Minister Natig Aliyev said March 11.

He made the remarks during the discussion ‘The future of energy, the future of global governance’ held as part of the 4th Global Baku Forum.

Noting that a number of projects are being implemented in Azerbaijan in alternative and renewable energy sphere, the minister said that the country studies the experience of European countries in this field.

“Every country should have its own energy policy for using energy sources,” said Aliyev.

“Traditionally, Azerbaijan is the oil and gas producer. Even 100 years ago, oil was produced in Azerbaijan with mechanical means, and now the country has enough reserves to meet the demand for many years to come," the minister said.

He added that there are all [natural] conditions in Azerbaijan for producing alternative energy.

It is often windy on Absheron peninsula therefore, there is a great potential to use wind power, according to Natig Aliyev.

Moreover, there are many sunny days in the country in a year, so, the use of renewable energy sources is attractive, he said, adding that currently, Azerbaijan studies the experience of Italy, Spain and other European countries in this sphere.

The total potential of alternative and renewable energy sources in Azerbaijan exceeds 12,000 megawatts.