Completion of Kambar-Ata 1 Prep Work Set for Q1 2025
Preparatory work on Kambarata HPP 1, the largest infrastructure project in Kyrgyzstan, is set to be completed in the first quarter of 2025, as reported by Deputy Minister of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic, Nazgul Usenova.
This marks the first active phase of construction in many years, with the Kambarata HPP 1 being strategically located at the source of glaciers to allow for the accumulation and rational use of water resources to provide irrigation water to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in the summer. The regional significance of the project is clear, according to Usenova.
The estimated cost of construction is approximately 40 percent of Kyrgyzstan’s GDP, with an installed capacity of 1,860 megawatts and an average annual generation of 5.6 billion kilowatt-hours. The 256-meter dam is a key element in the transition to green energy and strengthening the country’s climate resilience.
Construction progress includes the completion of a tunnel, laying the foundation for a temporary town, and the building of an access road and power lines. Plans for 2025 include the construction of industrial facilities.
The project is expected to enhance water use efficiency, as well as boost energy and food security in the region, providing Central Asia with green energy at a minimal cost.
Usenova highlighted the joint implementation of the project by Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, increasing its regional significance. The World Bank has allocated $18.6 million for the update of the feasibility study and environmental studies, with the potential allocation of $500 million for the construction of main structures.
Importantly, the project does not impact historical and cultural sites, with a designated 6,318-hectare construction area owned by Kyrgyzstan. Energy will be exported to neighboring countries, including Afghanistan and Pakistan, as part of the CASA 1000 project.
