QAZAQ GREEN. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kazakhstan, addressed an extended meeting of the new government, directing to expedite the modernization of the communal-energy sector. He expressed concern over the current state of the life-support systems in the country's settlements, emphasizing that ensuring the uninterrupted operation of all these systems is one of the basic functions of the Government and local administrations.

"Every heating season, we encounter the same problems, indicating that government bodies fail to learn from their mistakes," noted Tokayev.

The President also highlighted the delays in the construction of the steam and gas unit at Almaty CHP-2 and the long-standing issues with restoring the power unit at Ekibastuz GRES-1 since 2012. Questions also arise regarding the implementation of the expansion and reconstruction project at Ekibastuz GRES-2.

Tokayev underscored the need for prioritizing the completion of the modernization of 19 heat sources in high-risk areas and ensuring the introduction of over 700 megawatts of additional generation.

"It is also necessary to ensure the introduction of over 700 megawatts of additional generation. Delays are already unacceptable. Overall, it must be acknowledged that the country is experiencing a deficit in production and transmission capacities for electricity, heat, and water," emphasized the President.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted the necessity for a profound industry reform, including long-term tariffs, allowing for profit margins for natural monopoly entities, effective control, and digitization of all processes in the sphere.

The President noted that tariff increases should be accompanied by targeted consumer subsidies and maximum automation of this process.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called on the government to develop a comprehensive set of measures for the restoration and development of the country's communal-energy infrastructure. Local authorities are tasked with actively engaging in urban development efforts, including the construction of waste recycling plants and greening cities.

"Electricity, heating, water - these are basic necessities that directly affect the quality of life of citizens. We need to seriously and comprehensively reform this sphere," concluded the President.