Kyrgyzstan Begins Modernization of Historic Lebedinovka Hydropower Plant

Construction of a residential camp for engineers and workers has commenced at the Lebedinovka hydropower plant in the Chuy Region of Kyrgyzstan. This infrastructure development – the first stage of a comprehensive modernization – involves one of the republic’s oldest hydroelectric stations. The facility has been in continuous operation since 1943, but its equipment now requires total replacement due to significant physical wear.

Project works are being executed by the general contractor, China National Heavy Machinery Corporation. Upon completion of the temporary camp, Chinese specialists will begin the dismantling of legacy units and the commencement of structural installation. The technical specifications for the modernization project involve increasing the installed capacity of the Lebedinovka station from 7.6 to 10 megawatts. Annual power generation is projected to rise from 37.2 million to 53.5 million kilowatt–hours.

The reconstruction is part of a Kyrgyz Ministry of Energy state program aimed at renewing the national hydropower infrastructure. The project is commissioned by OJSC Chakan HPP. Following an agreement signed with the Chinese contractor in February 2026, the total project cost is set at 13.8 million euros. The majority of the funding is being provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, which has issued an 8.8 million euro credit line alongside a 5 million euro grant.