In the context of growing electricity consumption and a persistent capacity deficit, Kyrgyzstan is taking active steps to save electricity. This was stated by Daiyrbek Orunbekov, head of the information policy service of the country's presidential administration.
He noted that there is still a misconception in society regarding state property, including electricity. Low tariffs have contributed to many citizens not seeing the need for conservation. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in construction, the opening of new factories, and the emergence of new settlements in Kyrgyzstan, significantly increasing the demand for electricity.
According to Orunbekov, even the previously produced volumes of electricity were not sufficient to fully meet the country's needs, and today the deficit is felt even more acutely. In this regard, the government has introduced strict control measures and an electricity conservation regime in government institutions, and citizens are advised to use electricity rationally.
Along with conservation measures, large infrastructure projects are being developed to meet energy needs. Among them are the construction of the Kambar-Ata-1 hydropower plant with a capacity of 1860 MW and the construction of the second unit of the Kambar-Ata-2 hydropower plant with a capacity of 120 MW. The commissioning of the Kulanak hydropower plant with a capacity of 100 MW is also planned for 2027. In addition, solar and wind power plants are actively being developed, and the construction of the Orto-Tokoy hydropower plant is nearing completion. From 2021 to 2025, more than 30 small hydropower plants are planned to be commissioned in the republic.
In 2025, the following actions are planned:
- commissioning of 7 small hydropower plants with an additional capacity of 48 MW;
- completion of the reconstruction of 4 hydro units at the Toktogul hydropower plant, which will increase capacity by 240 MW;
- launch of a solar power plant with a capacity of 100 MW in the Kemin district;
- start of operations of a waste processing plant in Bishkek, which will produce 30 MW of electricity;
- upgrading two units at the Uch-Korgon hydropower plant, which will add 18 MW;
- commissioning of the Karakol hydropower plant with a capacity of 21 MW.
Nevertheless, he emphasized that before reaching this goal, it is crucial for citizens to approach electricity consumption responsibly. Currently, total consumption is 74.274 million kWh, while hydropower generation only reaches 57 million kWh. The Toktogul reservoir receives 167 cubic meters of water per second, while the outflow is 769 cubic meters, which is related to the need to increase electricity generation.
The situation is exacerbated by climate change and a decrease in snow precipitation, leading to a reduction in water resources. In this regard, Orunbekov urged citizens to abandon an indifferent attitude towards state property and to use electricity sparingly.
“If each of us does not start conserving electricity today, tomorrow we may face serious problems,” emphasized Daiyrbek Orunbekov.
