The Ministry of Energy of Kyrgyzstan is actively engaged in projects for the construction of thermal power plants (TPPs) that will be located near coal deposits such as Kara-Keche. However, there is potential for the installation of similar generators in other regions of the country.
Experts emphasize that although modern coal stations do not meet the criteria of "green energy," they nonetheless possess sufficient environmental safety and are capable of providing stable electricity generation regardless of weather conditions and time of year. This is particularly relevant in the context of climate change and increasing periods of low water availability.
Hydroelectric power stations, despite their significance, depend on seasonal fluctuations: in the summer, when there is active glacier melting, they generate a lot of energy, but in winter, when consumption increases, the water level in rivers often decreases, leading to reduced output at hydropower plants. In this regard, it is also important to pay attention to the need for economical use of the resources of the Toktogul Reservoir during the winter period, which is critical for agriculture and food security for both Kyrgyzstan and neighboring countries.
According to Central Asian water and energy resources specialist Ernest Karibekov, TPPs have a significant competitive advantage due to the acceptable cost of electricity generation. It is important for these stations to be located as close to coal deposits as possible. In an interview with IA "Kabar," he noted that using slurry pipelines to transport coal to thermal stations could reduce costs. If the fuel comes from a state deposit at a nominal price, the cost of one kilowatt could be around one som. The presence of several TPPs in Kyrgyzstan will provide the country with a sufficient power reserve to meet domestic needs and economize on the resources of the Toktogul Reservoir during the winter period.
The establishment of several TPPs will allow for the formation of a complete energy ring, which will be integrated with the unified energy system of Central Asia. This is the optimal option for Kyrgyzstan, considering that the cost of one kilowatt at TPPs is about one som, while at the Toktogul hydropower cascade it is only about 25 tyiyn when the reservoir is fully filled. This is beneficial for both the state and the population and businesses, as it will ensure a sufficient energy reserve for growing needs and industrial development.
Nevertheless, Karibekov emphasizes that a key condition for the successful implementation of this strategy is state control over coal deposits and generating capacities. "The strategic sector must operate in the interests of the country and be under government management, which will ensure energy security and realize economic potential," the expert concluded.
