“This is unacceptable”: Tokayev criticizes delays in key energy projects

Tengrinews.kz – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has criticized delays in the implementation of a number of major energy projects, calling the situation unacceptable. He made the remarks at a ceremonial event in Astana marking Energy Workers’ Day.

In his speech, Tokayev noted that Kazakhstan has substantial coal reserves and stressed the importance of using this strategic advantage effectively.

The Head of State emphasized that, given the country’s natural resources and production potential, Kazakhstan should not be importing electricity from other countries.

“Ultimately, this is a matter of national security. It is necessary to effectively utilize the country’s enormous energy capabilities. Kazakhstan has significant coal reserves, with annual production exceeding 110 million tons. It is extremely important to use this strategic advantage efficiently. We must accelerate the transition to modern ‘clean coal’ technologies, which can significantly improve the efficiency of coal-fired power plants. In addition, it is necessary to build a thermal power plant in the city of Kurchatov and combined heat and power plants in Kokshetau, Semey and Ust-Kamenogorsk. All of these facilities must operate using ‘clean coal’ technologies. However, the implementation of these projects is being delayed, and I consider this unacceptable,” Tokayev said.

According to the President, Kazakhstan’s coal reserves amount to around 33 billion tons. At the same time, he noted that the country is prioritizing the development of renewable energy sources.

Over the past five years, about $2.5 billion has been invested in the renewable energy sector, increasing the share of renewables in the national energy mix to more than 7 percent. To further expand the production of clean energy, Kazakhstan has established cooperation with leading global companies, Tokayev added.