Kyrgyzstan Completes Preparatory Phase for Kambarata–1 Hydropower Plant

Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Energy has completed the preparatory phase for the construction of the Kambarata–1 Hydropower Plant. The basic infrastructure framework required to begin major hydraulic engineering works is now in place at the future station site in the Naryn River gorge. A temporary workers’ camp, two access roads, and a technological bridge across the riverbed have been commissioned to facilitate the upcoming construction stages.

The challenging mountainous terrain necessitated the excavation of a specialized 126–meter vehicle tunnel, designated TT–2, which is now ready for the passage of heavy construction equipment. To provide power to the construction site, contractors installed an 18–kilometer, 110–kilovolt transmission line connected to a 110/10–kilovolt distribution substation. This setup ensures a stable power supply for the project until the installation of the hydraulic units begins.

The Kambarata–1 HPP project is being developed through an international partnership. Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan are preparing to establish a joint venture for the operational management of the hydroelectric facility. Under the proposed ownership structure, Kyrgyzstan will hold a 34 percent stake, while Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will each hold 33 percent. Following three rounds of consultations, a fourth meeting between negotiators has been proposed for the Kyrgyz capital.

According to the project schedule, construction of the main structures is set to begin in 2024, with the launch of the first generating unit planned for 2028. Upon reaching its design capacity, Kambarata–1 will generate 1,860 megawatts, providing an annual output of approximately 6 billion kilowatt–hours. The station will be the largest facility in the cascade, significantly altering the energy generation and flow regulation systems across the region.