QAZAQ GREEN.  Kazakhstan released projections for the maximum electricity load on the grid in 2029. The data is contained in the approved by the government plan of development for the Republic of Kazakhstan's electric power industry for 2023-2029, Kazakhstan electrical greed operating company (KEGOC) reports.

In 2029, the highest electrical load on the grid is expected to reach 22.9 GW. The greatest consumption in 2022 was approximately 16.5 GW. Electricity generation is expected to reach 146 billion kWh in 2029 and 153 billion kWh in 2035. Simultaneously, the capacity of energy sources owing to the commissioning of new capacities by 2029 will be 27.7 GW, when over 11.7 GW of additional capacity would be required.

To address this strategic task, KEGOC has launched an ambitious investment project: South Kazakhstan Electricity Transmission Reinforcement Project (Zhambyl and Turkestan Regions). It envisages construction of 475 km of overhead power lines (Shu - Zhambyl - Shymkent) and reconstruction of three existing 500 kV Shu, Zhambyl and Shymkent substations by the end of 2027. The project will reinforce the grid to accommodate the additional RES capacity planned to be commissioned in the southern region of Kazakhstan.

At the initiative of the head of state, the company plans implementing a promising investment project in the west of the country, which is aimed at connecting the energy system of western Kazakhstan with the UPS of Kazakhstan and involves the construction of power grid facilities. This large strategic and promising project will ensure energy security and energy dependence of the western regions and increase the reliability of power supply to consumers.