QAZAQ GREEN.  A major renewable energy initiative has been launched in the West Kazakhstan region, where work is underway to assess the area's wind energy potential. A measuring mast is being installed on the hill known locally as “Svistun-Gora” to record wind speed and direction, according to 24KZ.

The data collected will determine the feasibility of building a 50-megawatt wind power plant. The estimated cost of the project is 22 billion tenge.

The 142-meter mast will serve as the foundation for the future wind farm. It is equipped with instruments to measure wind speed, direction, and temperature—essential for conducting accurate wind assessments.

“We expect to complete installation within a few days. The mast will be fitted with specialized sensors that will collect meteorological data around the clock for at least one year,” said Zhanarbek Seitbattal, a representative of the contracting company.

The information gathered will guide the final design of the wind farm, including the number, placement, and height of turbines. The project is expected to take three years to complete. Once finished, it will feature a full-scale park of modern wind turbines capable of supplying clean electricity to thousands of residents.

This wind energy project is not the only green energy effort underway in the region.

“In June, an auction was held for the construction of a 30-megawatt solar power plant in the village of Poima. An investor has already been selected,” said Beimbet Musin, Acting Head of the Energy and Housing and Utilities Department of West Kazakhstan Region. “Work is also progressing on a hybrid station with a total capacity of 5 megawatts. The land has been allocated, and we expect to deliver solar panels by the end of the year. A gas-piston unit from an Italian company will follow next year.”

Experts believe the region has strong potential for renewable energy development thanks to its consistent winds, high number of sunny days, and ample available land.

“Renewable energy is a necessity in today’s world. Our region is just beginning to move in this direction,” said Askar Gaisin, Chief Engineer at the local power grid company. “It eases pressure on both the environment and the main power grid. For example, if farms in remote areas used solar panels, we’d see fewer grid failures. It’s hard to respond quickly to outages in distant locations.”

At the same time, modernization of the region’s energy infrastructure continues. Over 2 billion tenge has been allocated to upgrade power lines in the Borli, Taskala, Akzhaik, Bokeiorda, and Baiterek districts. Once all projects are completed, grid wear and tear is expected to be reduced to 74%.