Kyrgyzstan Advances Major Hydropower Modernization Projects
Kyrgyzstan is advancing a large-scale modernization of its hydropower capacity with the support of international financial institutions. The state-owned company Chakan GES has begun the reconstruction of the Lebedinovka hydroelectric power plant – a systematic upgrade designed to enhance national energy security and mitigate the risks of generation deficits. The China National Heavy Machinery Corporation will serve as the general contractor for the project under a contract finalized in late December 2025.
The total cost of the construction and engineering works is estimated at 13.8 million euros. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is the primary financial partner, providing an 8.8 million euro loan and a 5 million euro grant. Topographical and engineering surveys at the site are now fully complete, and specialists are preparing the project documentation. Upgrading aging facilities will allow the country to maintain grid stability amid growing domestic consumption and the high reliance of the energy sector on water resources.
Concurrently, the national energy ministry is implementing the comprehensive KRED project through Chakan GES to directly expand power generation. This program involves the construction of the new Nizhne-Tarskaya hydroelectric power plant and an extensive technical overhaul of the existing Bystrovskaya facility. The World Bank is providing financial backing for this initiative, allocating 43.2 million dollars in concessional funding.
Qing Yuan Engineering Consultants is developing the feasibility study for these facilities. In January 2026, engineering teams and client representatives inspected the future construction sites and held consultations with local authorities. A baseline report on site conditions was approved based on the collected data. The project team is currently drafting the terms of reference for geological exploration, which will be followed by the selection process for a general contractor to execute the main construction works.
