In the context of growing demand for electricity and a shortage of capacity in Kyrgyzstan, new measures are being implemented to conserve resources. This was reported by Daiyrbek Orunbekov, head of the information policy service of the President's Administration of the Kyrgyz Republic.
He noted that there is still a misconception in society regarding state property, including electricity. Low tariffs contribute to many citizens not considering it necessary to save electricity. Meanwhile, in recent years, there has been a surge in construction in the country, with new factories, plants, and settlements opening, significantly increasing the demand for electricity.
According to Orunbekov, even the previously generated volumes of electricity were insufficient to fully meet the country's needs, and now the shortage has become even more pressing. In this regard, the government has initiated strict measures to control electricity consumption in state institutions and has called on the population to use resources rationally.
Alongside conservation measures, large energy infrastructure projects are being implemented. The Kambar-Ata-1 hydropower plant with a capacity of 1860 MW is being constructed in Kyrgyzstan, and the construction of the second unit of the Kambar-Ata-2 hydropower plant with a capacity of 120 MW has also begun. The Kulanak hydropower plant with a capacity of 100 MW is scheduled to be commissioned in 2027. Additionally, the construction of solar and wind power plants is underway, and work on the Orto-Tokoy hydropower plant is nearing completion. From 2021 to 2025, more than 30 small hydropower plants are planned to be put into operation in the country.
In 2025, in particular:
- 7 small hydropower plants with a total capacity of 48 MW will be commissioned;
- the reconstruction of 4 hydro units at the Toktogul hydropower plant will be completed, increasing capacity by 240 MW;
- a solar power plant with a capacity of 100 MW will be launched in the Kemin district;
- a waste recycling plant in Bishkek will start operating, producing 30 MW of electricity;
- two units at the Uch-Korgon hydropower plant will be upgraded, adding 18 MW;
- the Karakol hydropower plant with a capacity of 21 MW will be commissioned.
However, he emphasized the importance of responsible electricity consumption by citizens until this goal is achieved. Currently, consumption in the country is 74.274 million kWh, while the generation from hydropower plants reaches approximately 57 million kWh. The Toktogul reservoir is experiencing an inflow of 167 cubic meters of water per second, which does not match the outflow of 769 cubic meters, related to the need to increase electricity generation.
Climate change and reduced snowfall are also exacerbating the situation, decreasing water resources. In this regard, Orunbekov urged citizens to abandon indifference towards state property and to use electricity more economically.
"If each of us does not start saving electricity today, tomorrow we may face serious problems," concluded Daiyrbek Orunbekov.
