Key facts
- Kazakhstan has begun construction on a 700MW coal-fired power plant.
- The project is located in Kurchatov, Abai region.
- Construction is expected to finish in 2032.
- The plant will generate approximately 5 TWh of electricity annually.
- The estimated cost of the project is 759 billion tenge ($1.6 billion).
Kazakhstan has initiated construction on a 700MW coal-fired power plant in Kurchatov, located in the eastern Abai region. The project, with an estimated cost of 759 billion tenge ($1.6 billion), is slated for completion in 2032 and is expected to generate around 5 TWh of electricity annually. The energy ministry highlighted the use of clean coal technologies and supercritical steam conditions for the plant, emphasizing its role in meeting Kazakhstan's long-term energy security objectives, mitigating power shortage risks, boosting industrial output, and attracting foreign investment. This project, along with two others, had faced delays due to funding issues, including stalled negotiations for a subsidized loan from Russia. It is part of Kazakhstan's broader strategy to expand its coal-fired electricity generation by 7.8GW through new and upgraded facilities, encompassing eight thermal coal plants. Notable projects include the 2.6GW Ekibastuz GRES-3, a 350MW plant in Karaganda, and others in Zhezkazgan, Kokshetau, and Ust-Kamenogorsk. The Abai region, bordering China, is a focal point for thermal coal plant construction under a national project, which also includes plans for another 360MW coal-fired plant in Semey by 2029.