Electricity in Kazakhstan in 2023

In 2023, more than half of Kazakhstan's electricity comes from coal (about 57%), while gas accounts for nearly a third (around 29%), and oil represents a minor share (just over 2%). Altogether, these fossil fuels make up a staggering 87% of the country's electricity consumption. In contrast, clean energy sources contribute to only about 13% of electricity generation, with hydropower at almost 8%, wind at approximately 3%, and solar at less than 2%. This heavy reliance on fossil fuels has significant implications for climate change and air pollution, indicating an urgent need for Kazakhstan to boost its low-carbon energy generation.

Suggestions

To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Kazakhstan can look to successful examples from other countries, especially those with a similar profile. For instance, Ukraine generates around 55% of its electricity from nuclear power, showcasing its potential as a robust, reliable, and clean energy source. Similarly, Uruguay and Denmark harness more than 30% and over 50% of their electricity from wind energy, respectively. Learning from these countries, Kazakhstan could invest heavily in nuclear energy and expand its existing wind energy infrastructure to significantly reduce its dependency on fossil fuels and drive down greenhouse gas emissions.

History

Kazakhstan's history of low-carbon electricity generation shows some fluctuation but overall growth. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, hydropower experienced moderate increases, peaking with a 1.5 TWh increase in 1994. However, the mid-1990s faced declines, with hydropower generation decreasing by up to 1 TWh in 1996. After a series of ups and downs in the early 2000s, the trend became more positive, with significant growths, such as a 2.4 TWh increase in 2016. The recent years have also displayed notable progress in clean energy, with solar energy increasing by 0.8 TWh in 2020 and wind energy contributing an additional 1.3 TWh in 2023. This pattern highlights the potential for further expansion and the importance of continued investment in clean energy sources.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources