Kyrgyzstan is showing interest in the project of laying a cable line across the Caspian Sea to improve energy exchange.
As Day.Az reports, Energy Minister of Kyrgyzstan Taalaibek Ibraev told Trend about this on the sidelines of COP29 in Baku.
The Minister of Energy of Kyrgyzstan emphasized the importance of energy cooperation within Central Asia, noting that a project to lay a cable line across the Caspian Sea is being actively negotiated between three countries – Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. Kyrgyzstan, having strong ties with the energy systems of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, views this project as promising, since it will improve energy exchange and solve energy supply problems in the region.
“Central Asia today operates within the energy ring, and for us, Kyrgyzstan, this is extremely important, since we have established connections with the Kazakh and Uzbek energy systems. We export and import electricity, which makes this project very promising for us,” he said minister
He noted that Kyrgyzstan is also actively developing projects in the field of hydropower. In particular, the ministry is working on a major project for the construction of Kambarata HPP-1 with a capacity of 1,860 megawatts, which will solve the water and energy problems of not only Kyrgyzstan, but also its neighbors – Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. This project is already supported by the World Bank, and the selection of a contractor for its implementation will begin next year.
“This megaproject will be an important step in solving water and energy problems for the three countries. I think that in the spring of next year we will begin to announce a competition to select a contractor and developer of the project. Immediately after this, the construction of a hydroelectric power station will begin,” the minister said.
According to him, Kyrgyzstan continues to develop small hydroelectric power plants and renewable energy projects, including solar and wind stations, which will be built in different regions of the country, such as Issyk-Kul, Naryn and the southern regions. Solar power plant projects with a total capacity of 1,500 MW are currently being actively developed, and several companies have already planned their construction.
“We plan to begin the implementation of one of these projects this year, and by the end of 2025 the first solar stations will be launched. This is not only in the Issyk-Kul region, but also in other regions, including the south and north of the country,” the minister noted.
How might geopolitical challenges affect the successful implementation of the cable project in Kyrgyzstan?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Energy Expert Dr. Askar Aitbayev
Editor (E): Welcome, Dr. Aitbayev. Thank you for joining us today. With Kyrgyzstan showing a keen interest in the project to lay a cable across the Caspian Sea, could you provide some insights into why this project is so significant for the region?
Dr. Aitbayev (D): Thank you for having me. The proposed cable project is incredibly important for several reasons. Firstly, it aims to enhance energy cooperation among Central Asian countries—a region that has historically faced challenges with energy supply and distribution. By connecting Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan, it provides a framework for shared resources and energy security.
E: That makes sense. During the recent COP29 in Baku, Kyrgyz Energy Minister Taalaibek Ibraev mentioned that Kyrgyzstan has strong energy ties with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. How does this relationship impact Kyrgyzstan’s decision to support this cable project?
D: Absolutely. Kyrgyzstan’s existing energy relationships with its neighbors are a crucial foundation for this initiative. These ties allow Kyrgyzstan to both export and import electricity effectively. The project will enhance these connections, improve energy exchange, and ultimately address supply issues, which can be particularly pressing during peak demand times.
E: In your opinion, what economic benefits could this cable project bring to Kyrgyzstan and the surrounding countries?
D: A project like this could bring numerous economic benefits. For Kyrgyzstan, improved energy exchange can lead to more stable electricity prices and reliability in supply, which is vital for local businesses and industries. Additionally, increased regional connectivity might attract foreign investment, as investors generally prefer stable and well-connected energy markets. For Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, it can lead to better energy management and utilization of surplus electricity, reducing waste, and improving efficiency.
E: The energy cooperation in Central Asia often faces geopolitical challenges. Do you foresee any potential obstacles that could affect this cable project?
D: Geopolitical considerations are always in play in such projects. Conflicts over resources, border disputes, or differing national agendas can pose risks. However, if the governments involved are committed to collaboration, they can navigate these challenges. Initiatives like this often foster dialogue and cooperation, which can help defuse tensions and build more integrated relationships.
E: There’s also the global energy transition to consider. How do you think this project aligns with the move towards greener energy sources in the region?
D: That’s a key point. The project can facilitate not just electricity trade, but also the exchange of renewable energy. Central Asian countries, including Kyrgyzstan, have significant hydropower potential, and as we move towards renewable energy sources, that can be a substantial asset. The cable project may enable countries to share excess renewable energy, support each other during fluctuations, and gradually transition away from fossil fuels.
E: looking ahead, what should be the next steps for Kyrgyzstan and its partners to ensure the successful implementation of this project?
D: The next steps should focus on solidifying political commitment among the involved countries. This involves finalizing agreements, engaging in detailed feasibility studies, and securing funding for the project. Additionally, involving international organizations that support energy infrastructure could provide both financing and technical expertise. It’s essential to maintain a clear vision of cooperation in energy policy to make this project a reality.
E: Thank you, Dr. Aitbayev, for your insights. The future of energy in Central Asia seems bright with such initiatives, and we look forward to seeing how this project unfolds.
D: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this exciting topic. It’s indeed a pivotal moment for Central Asia’s energy landscape.