On May 26, 2026, a meeting was held between the Institute for Sustainable Energy and Regional Development Research of Mingachevir State University (MSU) and the Nakhchivan Solar Power Plant (SPP) of AzerEnergy OJSC to discuss university-industry integration and opportunities for applied research in the fields of sustainable and green energy.

During the meeting, participants discussed the expansion of scientific research cooperation in the field of sustainable energy, strengthening university-industry partnerships, developing practical knowledge and skills related to green technologies, and facilitating the integration of students and young researchers into real industrial environments.

Representing Mingachevir State University at the meeting held at the Nakhchivan SPP were Ruhiyya Huseynova, Director of the Institute for Sustainable Energy and Regional Development Research; Azad Mirzabayov, Head of the Quality Assurance and Sustainable Development Department; Hamida Zeynalzada, Head of the Internal Control Department; and Qurban Qurbanzada, Deputy Head of the Business and Alumni Relations Department.

During the discussions, the parties exchanged views on priority areas of cooperation. Particular attention was given to linking master’s thesis topics in energy and sustainable development with industry-oriented research, creating access to information and technical resources for young scientists and researchers, and organizing internships and technical excursions for students studying energy-related disciplines.

During the meeting, Ruhiyya Huseynova provided information about the possibilities for implementing joint initiatives in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and environmental responsibility within the framework of the university’s sustainable development and green transformation approaches. In this context, the importance of integrating scientific knowledge with real industrial environments, strengthening research capacity in green technologies, and developing young people’s practical skills in innovative energy solutions was emphasized.

Farid Safarov, Director of the Nakhchivan SPP, provided detailed information about the plant’s activities, its role in ensuring the region’s energy security, and the work being carried out in the field of renewable energy. It was noted that the station plays a significant role in implementing green energy policies in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic while fulfilling strategic functions related to the wider application of alternative energy sources, strengthening environmental sustainability, and improving energy efficiency.

The meeting also included discussions on the plant’s future prospects for participation in international energy and green transformation projects, the implementation of innovative energy solutions, and opportunities for expanding scientific research cooperation in these areas. At the same time, the station’s potential for organizing industrial internships for students studying energy and engineering, introducing young researchers to real technological processes, and supporting applied research activities was highly appreciated.

As part of the visit, participants became closely acquainted with the plant’s operations and received information about solar panel management and monitoring systems, energy production processes, and technical safety mechanisms.

The parties noted that the meeting was of significant importance for the future development of joint research projects, innovative initiatives, and a cooperation platform aimed at human capital development in the fields of sustainable energy and green technologies.

It should be noted that the Institute for Sustainable Energy and Regional Development Research of Mingachevir State University carries out activities aimed at developing university-industry cooperation in the fields of sustainable energy, green technologies, and applied scientific research. In this regard, the meeting with the Nakhchivan SPP is considered important in terms of future cooperation prospects.