In the city of Kurchatov, Abai region, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for a new condensing power plant (CPP) with a capacity of 700 Megawatts. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
"The Kurchatov CPP project is a major strategic initiative aimed at developing the country's energy infrastructure, increasing the region's economic potential, and enhancing its investment attractiveness," the statement said. The project implementation period is planned for 2026–2032.
Total investments amount to 881 billion tenge. Once fully operational, the plant will generate up to 5 billion kWh of electricity per year. The project also has great social significance. During the construction phase, up to 5,000 people will be employed, and after the plant is launched, 400 permanent jobs will be created. This will have a positive impact on the socio-economic development of Kurchatov and the entire Abai region.
Speaking at the ceremony, the head of the region noted that this project is an important initiative aimed at strengthening the country's energy independence. Currently, the Shulbinsk Hydroelectric Power Plant on the Irtysh River, with an installed capacity of 702 MW, is one of the main hydroelectric facilities in the republic. However, since hydropower depends on water resources, it is important to diversify generation sources for the reliability of the country's energy system.
In this direction, several major energy projects are being implemented simultaneously in the Abai region. In particular, the construction of the Semey Hydroelectric Power Plant with a capacity of 350 MW is planned. Additionally, the second stage of the Shulbinsk HPP is being implemented, increasing its capacity from 702 MW to 1050 MW. Furthermore, the construction of CHPP-3 with a capacity of 360 MW is planned in the city of Semey.