Kazakhstan Approves National Hydropower Development Plan Through 2035

The Government of Kazakhstan has approved a comprehensive hydropower development plan extending through 2035. The decree, signed by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, mandates the construction of at least 500 MW of new generating capacity by the end of the current decade. This initiative is designed to diversify the national energy balance and establish favorable conditions for attracting capital investment into the industry.

The document establishes a long-term framework for the management of water resources, consisting of 30 specific measures. These actions cover the entire project preparation cycle – ranging from the evaluation of the energy potential of rivers to the allocation of land and the resolution of scientific and technical challenges. Authorities intend to identify a portfolio of sites suitable for the construction of both traditional hydroelectric power plants and pumped-storage facilities.

Detailed information regarding prospective projects will be consolidated onto a unified digital platform. This resource is intended to serve as a centralized database for government agencies and private investors. Prior to the launch of any project, comprehensive studies will be conducted to assess water availability and the potential impact on local ecosystems. This approach will allow for the early identification of environmental risks and the determination of optimal technical parameters for future stations.

The addition of new generating facilities is expected to enhance the reliability of regional energy supplies and the overall stability of the national electricity grid. The focus on pumped-storage plants is driven by the need for flexible capacity to manage peak loads within the power system. Consequently, the government aims to provide a standardized operational framework for the private sector – encompassing everything from initial riverbed studies to the commissioning of hydroelectric units.