QAZAQ GREEN. The Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan held a meeting between Deputy Minister Sungat Yessimkhanov and representatives of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to discuss key areas of cooperation in decarbonising the economy, expanding renewable energy, and modernising the country’s electrical infrastructure.

In his opening remarks, the Deputy Minister expressed appreciation for the EBRD’s longstanding support and its significant contribution to the sustainable development of Kazakhstan’s energy sector. He reaffirmed the country's commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060 in line with its international obligations and emphasised Kazakhstan’s active pursuit of a low-carbon development strategy.

The discussion focused on the Ministry’s roadmap to increase the share of renewables in Kazakhstan’s energy mix to 15% by 2030 and 50% by 2050—up from the current 6%. The sides highlighted the role of regular renewable energy auctions and the importance of attracting strategic investors. The meeting also underlined the significance of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry and the EBRD, under which approximately $590 million in renewable energy projects have been financed to date, adding 788 MW of clean energy capacity.

The parties gave particular attention to the Just Energy Transition Platform (JETP), an initiative announced by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly. The JETP aims to mobilise climate finance and develop an inclusive framework for a fair and sustainable transition to a low-carbon economy.

Another key topic was the project to integrate the Western Kazakhstan energy system into the Unified Energy System of the country. Implemented in collaboration with KEGOC JSC, the project aims to enhance grid reliability, support the integration of renewables, and expand gas-fired generation in the western regions.

The meeting also addressed a joint project with the EBRD to strengthen the power supply to Astana by establishing a second power centre and a new 500 kV transmission line, scheduled for completion by 2028.

Looking ahead, the sides noted Kazakhstan’s upcoming participation in the COP29 climate conference in Baku and the planned signing of further agreements on green energy development and cross-border cooperation.

The Ministry of Energy reaffirmed its readiness to deepen collaboration with the EBRD, explore concrete proposals, and jointly implement priority projects focused on a just energy transition and sustainable development.