In a strategic move to eliminate power shortages, Prime Minister Oljas Bektenov has signed a government decree launching the “National Coal Power Generation Development Project.” This initiative follows directives from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and sets a roadmap for Kazakhstan’s energy security through 2030. The project addresses the surging demand for stable “base load” power driven by industrialization and the rapid growth of the nation’s AI and data center sectors.
The ambitious plan outlines the commissioning and modernization of 7.8 GW of power capacity, involving a total investment of at least 7.5 trillion tenge. Key highlights include the construction of eight new power plants in cities such as Ekibastuz, Kurchatov, and Jezkazgan, alongside new thermal power plants in Kokshetau, Semey, and Ust-Kamenogorsk. Furthermore, deep modernization of 11 existing stations will reduce the industry’s equipment wear and tear by over 12%.
Environmental sustainability is at the heart of the project, with a strict focus on “Clean Coal” technologies. New facilities will implement high-tech filtration and catalytic reduction systems to meet international emission standards. Beyond infrastructure, the project carries a strong social mandate, creating 4,500 permanent jobs and introducing specialized benefits, including a preferential mortgage program for power plant employees in partnership with Otbasy Bank.
