QAZAQ GREEN.  Kazakhstan intends to increase the share of renewable energy sources (RES) in its energy mix to 50% by 2050. This was announced by Zhaslan Kassenov, Director of the Renewable Energy Department at the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, during the 1st Regional Energy Forum Power Central Asia + China, Kazinform reported.

“Kazakhstan and China have a longstanding partnership in renewable energy, particularly in solar and wind power projects. Since 2018, we have implemented an auction mechanism, and numerous companies from the People’s Republic of China have actively participated,” Kassenov noted.

He added that several agreements aimed at expanding cooperation are expected to be signed during the forum. These include large-scale solar energy projects in southern Kazakhstan and wind energy projects in the northern regions.

“Although renewable energy and green generation are still relatively new sectors within Kazakhstan’s energy industry, we are committed to meeting the government’s targets: achieving 15% renewable energy in the national energy mix by 2030, and 50% by 2050, including alternative energy sources,” he said.

According to Kassenov, Kazakhstan has already secured contracts for more than 2 GW of renewable energy capacity. Taking into account upcoming auctions and projects involving strategic investors, the total potential exceeds 5 GW.

“Given these initiatives, our goals are entirely realistic. In fact, we are already exceeding our annual targets. For example, in 2024, the share of renewable energy reached approximately 6.5%, surpassing the planned 6%,” he added.

However, as the Ministry of Energy representative emphasised, the sector still faces significant challenges. Chief among them is the variability of renewable energy: the sun doesn’t shine at night, and the wind doesn’t always blow. Addressing this, Kassenov pointed out the importance of developing both flexible and baseload generation, as well as fully integrating renewables into the national energy system.

“We need to tackle these issues. A key focus for the energy sector is increasing the share of flexible generation and ensuring stable baseload power. Kazakhstan is working closely with international experts and the global community to address these challenges. And overall, the goals are achievable,” Kassenov concluded.