Is solar energy a viable energy source in Kazakhstan?

In 2019, another solar power plant in Kazakhstan, Saran, with a capacity of 100 MW started its operation in the Karaganda region (Satubaldina, 2020). According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), within the period of 40 years, solar energy has a potential to meet about 20-25% of the energy demand of the country.

Is Kazakhstan a good place to invest in solar power?

Kazakhstan has remarkable solar potential with a very well-designed auction system, a clear renewable capacity addition schedule, and a solid decarbonisation target. The country is now also including storage systems as part of its public procurement strategy in a move that will ease further integration of renewables into the grid.

Why did Kazakhstan get a loan for a solar power plant?

The loan was designed to finance the modernisation of the plant, including the full replacement of the existing power generation units and auxiliary equipment, resulting in increased eficiency and security of supply from renewable energy in power-deficient, southern Kazakhstan.

What is Kazakhstan's First Solar power plant?

The plant is to produce solar cells using Kazakhstan’s silicon. The designed capacity of photovoltaic wafers is 50 MW with a potential to increase up to 100 MW. In 2012, the first solar power station, “Otar,” that generates 0.5 MW of energy, was also built in the Zhambyl region.

Where are solar power plants located in Kazakhstan?

In 2019, Nurgisa solar power plant with a capacity of 100 MW in Kapshagay, Almaty region started its operation (informburo.kz, 2019). In 2019, another solar power plant in Kazakhstan, Saran, with a capacity of 100 MW started its operation in the Karaganda region (Satubaldina, 2020).

What are the challenges facing Kazakhstan's energy sector?

More than 70 per cent of Kazakhstan’s electricity is produced in ageing coal-fired plants, served by the large volumes of cheap local coal in the north-east of the country. Consequently the energy sector, in particular power and heat generation, accounts for 80 per cent of the country’s carbon emissions. The sector is facing additional challenges: