QAZAQ GREEN. As part of the International Energy Investment Forum in Vienna, the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of Kyrgyzstan signed an agreement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) on implementation of two solar power plant projects, reported 24.kg citing the press service of the Ministry of Economy.

The possibility of locating new power plants in Batken and Talas regions is being reportedly studied.

This agreement continues cooperation between the government of Kyrgyzstan and IFC to develop a solar power plant park with a total capacity of up to 500 megawatts. The project aims to increase the use of renewable energy potential to meet growing electricity demand.

At the first stage of cooperation, IFC helped conduct a comprehensive analysis and structuring of a pilot project of a solar power plant with a capacity of 100-150 megawatts in Kochkor district of Naryn region. An international competition is currently being held to attract private investors.

In addition, the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, with the assistance of IFC, are structuring a project using a public-private partnership (PPP) model for the construction and operation of solar power plants in Batken and Talas regions.

These projects help increase domestic electricity production, diversify power supply sources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They are also consistent with the development strategy of the energy sector of Kyrgyzstan until 2035 and the need for development of renewable energy sector.