Concerns Grow Over Slow Uptake of Electric Vehicles in Kyrgyzstan
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – On October 23, 2024, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Edil Baisalov, raised concerns about the low uptake of electric vehicles in the country. With only 2,000 electric vehicles registered over the past five years, Baisalov believes that Kyrgyzstan must do more to achieve its environmental objectives.
“Kyrgyzstan should lead the way in phasing out internal combustion engines. We need to significantly increase the number of electric vehicles over the next five years, taking inspiration from successful examples like Norway. This oil-rich nation has made substantial progress in transitioning to electric vehicles, with 70% of all cars sold there this year being electric,” stated Edil Baisalov.
At a forum, discussions also revolved around the development of hydro and solar energy. Baisalov announced plans to open hundreds of hydropower stations along Kyrgyzstan’s rivers next year, focusing on the development of micro and small hydropower plants. Additionally, a solar energy project is in the works to generate several gigawatts of electricity.
Highlighting the importance of the Kambar-Ata-1 hydropower project, Baisalov mentioned its collaboration with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to benefit both Kyrgyzstan and neighboring countries with energy. He stressed the need for responsible water resource management, emphasizing the conservation of water in cooperation with neighboring nations.
In order to enhance water resource management and irrigation systems, Baisalov mentioned the necessity of investing hundreds of millions of dollars in new management techniques.
The push towards electric vehicles and sustainable energy sources in Kyrgyzstan signals a commitment towards a greener and more environmentally conscious future.
