He expressed these words in his social media post, addressing both public psychological aspects and the current state of the energy sector.
Increase in Consumption and Low Tariffs
We observe an incorrect attitude. Often, when we see someone recklessly driving a car, we say: “Are you driving a government vehicle?”.
Daiyrbek Orunbekov
This attitude demonstrates that government properties and assets are often perceived as something that can be used without concern for the consequences. This also applies to electricity.
Low electricity tariffs do not encourage savings, and many do not see the need for rational consumption. In recent years, the country has seen active construction, new factories opening, and new settlements forming, significantly increasing electricity consumption.
Previously generated electricity was insufficient to fully meet the country's needs, and now this deficit has become even more pronounced. In this regard, the government has begun strict control over electricity supply in state institutions and has implemented a savings regime. The population has also been advised to use electricity more rationally.
Energy Independence of Kyrgyzstan
At the same time, large-scale projects are being implemented in the country aimed at meeting energy needs. The construction of the Kambar-Ata-1 hydroelectric power station, with a capacity of 1860 megawatts, is underway. The construction of the second power unit of the Kambar-Ata-2 hydroelectric power station, with a capacity of 120 megawatts, has also begun. The commissioning of the Kulanak hydroelectric power station with a capacity of 100 megawatts is planned for 2027.
In addition, in the coming years, the commissioning of solar and wind power plants is planned.
The construction of the Orto-Tokoy hydroelectric power station is nearing completion. From 2021 to 2025, more than 30 small hydroelectric power stations were built and put into operation.
By 2025:
- seven small hydroelectric power stations were commissioned, adding 48 megawatts to the total capacity;
- four hydroelectric blocks at the Toktogul hydroelectric power station were reconstructed, increasing their capacity to 240 megawatts;
- a solar power station with a capacity of 100 megawatts was commissioned in the Kemin district;
- a waste processing plant in Bishkek began generating 30 megawatts of electricity;
- two blocks of the Uch-Korgon hydroelectric power station were modernized, increasing their capacity by 18 megawatts;
- the Karakol hydroelectric power station with a capacity of 21 megawatts was built.
Modernization of existing equipment and procurement of new equipment is also underway. Currently, about 50 small hydroelectric power stations are under construction, and the results of these efforts will be felt by 2030.
In the future, Kyrgyzstan will be able to become energy independent and even export electricity.
Everyone is Responsible. The Importance of Electricity Savings for Energy Security
“If we do not change our indifferent position of ‘this is the state's business,’ tomorrow we may face serious problems. Today, electricity consumption in the country has reached 74.274 million kilowatt-hours, while the production of hydroelectric power stations is approximately 57 million kilowatt-hours. At the same time, 167 cubic meters of water per second flow into the Toktogul reservoir, while 769 cubic meters flow out,” he noted.
The situation is exacerbated by climate change and reduced snowfall, which directly affects river flow levels and reservoir filling.
Inefficient electricity consumption can lead to insufficient water accumulation necessary for the stable operation of the energy system.
In conclusion, Daiyrbek Orunbekov urged Kyrgyz citizens to abandon their indifferent attitude towards electricity and treat it with responsibility and patriotism, emphasizing that only joint efforts can help avoid energy problems in the future.
