Kyrgyzstan diminishes coal imports from Kazakhstan
Bishkek, October 01, 2024 – The Kyrgyz Republic has made significant strides in reducing its reliance on coal imports from Kazakhstan, according to Energy Minister Taalaibek Ibraev.
In a recent interview with Birinchi Radio, Minister Ibraev disclosed that the Bishkek Heating and Power Plant currently holds a stockpile of 200,000 tons of solid fuel. This is a substantial decrease from the previous annual imports of 550,000-600,000 tons of coal from neighboring countries. As of this year, imports have been reduced to 180,000 tons, with plans to completely cease importing solid fuel from Kazakhstan within the next three years.
One of the key factors driving this shift is the utilization of the Ak-Ulak coal deposit in the Min-Kush village of Naryn region. Previously overlooked, this domestic resource is now being mined and utilized with the assistance of investors. Minister Ibraev emphasized that the quality of Ak-Ulak coal is on par, if not superior, to that of coal imported from Kazakhstan.
This move towards self-sufficiency in energy production not only benefits the economy of Kyrgyzstan but also contributes to greater energy security and sustainability in the region. With continued investment in domestic energy sources, the country is well on its way to achieving its goals of reducing coal imports and promoting renewable energy sources.
