Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan discuss Kambarata-1 HPP project in Tashkent

A high-level meeting of the water and energy ministers from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan recently took place in Tashkent to discuss the construction of the Kambarata Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP-1). The project, located on the Naryn River, is set to become one of Central Asia's largest hydroelectric facilities.

Kazakhstan's Vice Minister of Energy, Sungat Yessimkhanov, emphasized that the 1,860 MW power plant will significantly enhance regional cooperation and strengthen friendly relations between the countries of Central Asia.

The project will see the three countries—Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan—collaborate closely on the operation of the plant. According to agreements made during the meeting, Kyrgyzstan will hold a 34% share, while Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will each have a 33% stake. Upon completion of the project, Kyrgyzstan will assume full ownership of the Kambarata HPP-1.

The Kambarata HPP-1 is a monumental project, with plans to construct a 256-meter high dam, a power station capable of generating 1,860 megawatts, and a reservoir with a capacity of 5.4 billion cubic meters. Once operational, the plant will produce approximately 5.6 billion kWh of electricity annually. The project is expected to be completed within 10 years.

The leaders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan had previously signed a roadmap for the Kambarata HPP-1 project in January 2023, solidifying their commitment to the project and outlining key milestones.

Experts have raised concerns about the deteriorating water resources in the region, driven by drastic climate changes such as rising temperatures and decreasing precipitation. These changes are leading to lower water levels in rivers and reservoirs.

Analysts predict that by 2050, Central Asia’s population will reach 90 million, exacerbating water scarcity. The region is expected to face a 25-30% water shortage, while the demand for water for agricultural purposes may increase by 30% by 2030.

The Kambarata HPP-1 is seen as a key step in addressing some of these challenges, providing a significant boost to the region's energy security and mitigating some of the effects of water scarcity through renewable hydroelectric power.

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