Key facts
- Kazakhstan plans to add 26.3GW of generation capacity by 2035.
- By 2029, 7.4GW of new coal-fired capacity and 5.9GW of renewables are targeted.
- The new coal capacity is intended to support energy-intensive AI infrastructure and data centers.
- A $15.5bn project to boost coal-fired power was approved in March.
- Kazakhstan's current power capacity is 27.1GW, with 13.7GW from coal.
Kazakhstan has unveiled a new energy security strategy that includes expanding coal-fired power generation through 2035 and modernizing its existing coal fleet, with the stated aim of supporting the country's artificial intelligence (AI) goals. The central Asian nation plans to add a total of 26.3GW of generation capacity by 2035, with a significant portion, 13.3GW, targeted for commissioning by 2029. This 2029 target includes 7.4GW of new coal-fired capacity and 5.9GW from renewable sources.
The ministry indicated that an overhaul of the country's infrastructure could meet its power needs as early as 2027 and establish a sustainable surplus. The addition of new coal-fired capacity by 2029 is seen as crucial for building energy-intensive AI infrastructure and large data centers. This initiative builds upon a previously approved $15.5bn project aimed at increasing coal-fired power generation.
The Ministry of AI and Digital Development, established in September, will collaborate with the Energy Ministry and the state-owned telecommunications company Kazakhtelecom to develop AI data centers. The Energy Ministry confirmed that the broader plan encompasses 19 projects, comprising eight new coal-fired power plants and the modernization of 11 existing ones. Currently, Kazakhstan possesses 27.1GW of power capacity, with 13.7GW from coal, 7.1GW from gas, 2.5GW from hydro, and 3.8GW from other renewables. Total power generation is projected to reach at least 126.5TWh this year, compared to 123.1TWh last year, while consumption was 124.6TWh.