Kazakhstan and Qatar are discussing the construction of a large hydroelectric power station on the Irtysh
Chairman of the Management Board of JSC “Samruk-Energy” Kairat Maksutov met with Chairman of the Board of Directors of Nebras Power Mohammed Nasser Al-Hajri. The meeting was held with the participation of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the State of Qatar Arman Isagaliyev. During the talks, the parties discussed the prospects for cooperation in the construction of the Semipalatinsk hydroelectric power station (Semey HPP) with a capacity of 300 MW in the Abay region in Kazakhstan. The scale of this project on the transboundary Irtysh River causes serious concerns among environmentalists, as large hydraulic structures can lead to irreversible changes in the ecosystems of the region.
The project is being implemented within the framework of the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Government of the State of Qatar, signed on March 20, 2024 in Doha. The document provides for a long-term strategic partnership for the development of projects in priority sectors. However, despite the declared goals, it is important to take into account that such initiatives are often accompanied by a significant impact on the environment. During the meeting, the parties discussed the current progress of the Semey HPP construction project and identified key steps for its implementation, but environmental safety issues, judging by the company’s press service, remained in the background.
JSC “Samruk-Energy” and Nebras Power confirmed their interest in strengthening partnership and joint implementation of strategically significant initiatives in the field of hydropower. Nebras Power, being a leading international energy company, specializes in investments in renewable energy, electricity and water supply projects. The company is actively implementing projects in the Middle East, Asia, Europe and Latin America, positioning itself as a supporter of sustainable energy. However, in pursuit of economic benefits and technological progress, it is important not to forget about the conservation of natural resources and minimizing anthropogenic impact on the environment.
