This statement followed a remark from Deputy Bakyt Tentishev, who expressed concern among the population about a possible increase in heating prices if the HPP switches to gas. He also questioned the impact of the HPP on air pollution in Bishkek.
In response, the mayor noted that the HPP is one of the sources of air pollution alongside other factors.
“The HPP was transferred to the city administration two years ago. We are not considering the possibility of switching it to gas, as this would lead to a significant increase in heating prices. We are making efforts to combat smog,” Junushaliev said.
He added that the new energy blocks at the HPP are equipped not only with electrofilters but also with sulfur purification systems, which significantly improves the situation. Previously, the city administration spent over 30 million soms on sulfur purification, but now it has started to generate income by selling sulfur at 2,900 soms per ton. Investors have invested 1.5 million dollars in equipment that allows ash to be collected directly from the pipe, which also helps reduce emissions into the atmosphere,” he clarified.
According to Aibek Junushaliev, the HPP currently has 150,000 subscribers.
“To reduce the load on the HPP, we are working on decentralization. Six gas-fired boilers have been installed at ‘Bishkekselmash,’ and 13,400 subscribers have already been transferred to their balance. Analysis has shown that the cost of heat has decreased. This may allow us to reconsider tariffs in the future,” he concluded.
