Kyrgyzstan Launches Tender for Tar River Hydroelectric Plant
Kyrgyzstan is launching the preparatory phase for the construction of a new hydroelectric power plant on the Tar River. Under the Renewable Energy Development in the Kyrgyz Republic project, applications are now open for engineering and geological surveys in the Osh region. The starting value of the contract is estimated at 21 million soms, and the bidding process will continue until April 15, 2026.
These geological studies represent the next step in a comprehensive program financed by the World Bank. The international institution previously provided the republic with a 50-year, $43.2 million interest-free loan that includes a ten-year grace period. The allocated funds will be directed toward the construction of the Lower Tar hydroelectric power plant in the Kara-Kulja district and the modernization of the existing Bystrovskaya hydroelectric power plant.
The preliminary design capacity of the new facility on the Tar River is set at 19 megawatts. Meanwhile, the reconstruction of the Bystrovskaya plant, which currently generates 8.7 megawatts, is designed to increase the efficiency of its hydraulic turbines by 16 to 18 percent. Upgrading this existing equipment will supply the national power grid with an additional 7.2 million kilowatt-hours annually without the need to construct new dams.
The active phase of documentation preparation for these energy facilities began in May 2025. The state-owned company Chakan GES initiated the selection of consultants to develop a feasibility study. Out of twenty-one companies competing for the contract, only five provided comprehensive information. This shortlist is currently undergoing the approval procedure at the World Bank headquarters.
Strict qualification requirements are applied to participants in the current geological survey tender. The selection process follows a two-envelope procedure – bidders must demonstrate the availability of specialized equipment, a staff of qualified specialists, and the absence of tax debts. A mandatory condition is the presence of at least one successfully completed similar contract over the past five years for an amount equal to or exceeding the current lot. Under the terms of the agreement, the winning contractor will receive a 15 percent advance payment, while the remaining 85 percent will be transferred only after the results are accepted on site.
