At the World Government Summit in Dubai, as part of the «Emerging Global Impact» forum, Kyrgyzstan outlined its development strategy, focusing on hydropower. Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Head of the Presidential Administration of the Kyrgyz Republic Adylbek Kasymaliev said that the country, located in the heart of Central Asia and landlocked, sees its future in increasing hydropower potential, developing transit opportunities and digitalizing public administration. Particular attention is paid to hydropower, as a key factor in the sustainable development of Kyrgyzstan.
In his speech at the forum, Adylbek Kasymaliev emphasized that the unique geographical location of Kyrgyzstan, as «a country of the upper reaches» in the region, determines its responsibility for the rational use of water resources. He noted that the republic’s hydropower potential is enormous – more than 140 billion kilowatt-hours per year. This, according to the head of the Cabinet of Ministers, is enough not only to meet the internal needs of the country, but also to serve as the most important source of water for vast territories of neighboring Central Asian states located downstream and dependent on Kyrgyz rivers.
The central element of Kyrgyzstan’s environmental and energy strategy, as Kasymaliev noted, is the construction of the Kambarata HPP-1. This large-scale national project, he said, will generate 5.6 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. In his speech, the official emphasized that the commissioning of the hydroelectric power station will not only ensure the energy independence of Kyrgyzstan, but will also allow the export of surplus «clean» energy to neighboring countries, thereby helping to reduce the carbon footprint throughout the region and the transition to renewable energy sources. Thus, Kyrgyzstan positions itself as a responsible participant in global efforts to combat climate change.
The construction of Kambarata HPP-1 also raises certain concerns among environmentalists. It is important that the project is implemented in compliance with all necessary environmental norms and standards, with minimal impact on river ecosystems and the environment. A thorough environmental impact assessment (EIA) and transparency in decision-making, with the participation of the public and independent experts, is necessary. Only in this case, in relation to Kyrgyzstan, will it be possible to talk about truly sustainable development and «green» energy.
