Kazakhstan Advances National Project to Modernize Coal-Fired Power Sector
The Government of Kazakhstan, through the Ministry of Energy, is advancing a national initiative to modernize the country’s coal-fired power generation capacity and address long-term energy needs.
The draft National Plan for the Development of Coal-Fired Power Generation through 2030 has a preliminary estimated cost exceeding 8 trillion tenge (US$16.2 billion), as presented at a recent expert roundtable, the ministry reported on February 9. The plan prioritizes energy security, infrastructure renewal, large-scale investment, and workforce development.
Energy Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov noted that the initiative envisages construction of six major new power facilities, including Ekibastuz GRES-3, as well as plants in Kurchatov, Kokshetau, Semei, Ust-Kamenogorsk, and Zhezkazgan. Modernization of existing facilities, such as Ekibastuz GRES-2 and Aksu GRES, is also under consideration.
New construction projects will be implemented through competitive, tender-based investor selection, while upgrades to existing plants will proceed under investment agreements with the ministry. These mechanisms aim to ensure transparency, safeguard investor returns, and maintain stable long-term tariffs.
The plan emphasizes the adoption of clean coal technologies, with gradual replacement of outdated units by high-efficiency, low-emission power plants, balancing environmental standards with energy security.
Implementation will be coordinated with coal production expansion and rail infrastructure development to mitigate transport bottlenecks. Social measures, including workforce protections and housing programs, will be developed in partnership with Otbasy Bank.
Photo credit: gov.kz
