In 2025, Kazakhstan's electricity landscape is predominantly powered by fossil energy sources, accounting for more than 85% of the total electricity generation. Coal is the leading source, contributing a little over half of the total electricity consumption, while natural gas adds nearly 30%. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources make up a modest 15% of the energy mix, with hydropower contributing a little more than half of that low-carbon share. Wind energy accounts for slightly more than 4%, and solar energy provides nearly 2%. The reliance on fossil fuels poses significant environmental challenges, making the need for a shift towards more sustainable energy solutions urgent.
Is Electricity Growing in Kazakhstan?
Electricity consumption in Kazakhstan, in terms of kWh per person, currently stands at 5898, which is slightly lower than the historic high of 6105 kWh/person recorded in 1990. This indicates a moderate decline of 207 kWh per person. However, low-carbon electricity generation has seen a positive change, with the latest figures showing 862 kWh per person, surpassing last year's record of 855 kWh. Despite this progress in clean electricity, overall electricity consumption per person has not surpassed the historic peak, which might be a concern for meeting future electrification needs and supporting economic growth.
Suggestions
Kazakhstan can boost its low-carbon electricity generation by emulating successful regions known for their sustainable energy practices. Countries like Denmark and Iowa produce a significant portion of their electricity through wind energy, achieving 60% and 57% respectively, which Kazakhstan can strive to match given its potential wind resources. Moreover, looking at regions such as France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy constitutes 67% and 65% of electricity generation, respectively, Kazakhstan could greatly benefit from investing in nuclear energy. Solar energy should also be a focus, with examples like Nevada and California generating around 30% of their electricity from solar energy, showing that tapping into Kazakhstan's solar potential could significantly increase its clean energy footprint.
History
Historically, Kazakhstan's low-carbon electricity has seen several shifts. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, there were modest increases in hydropower, although this was followed by declines from 1995 to 1997. The turn of the millennium saw hydropower increase again, peaking significantly in recent years, notably with a 2.5 TWh increase in 2024 before a minor decline in 2025. Recent years have also seen noteworthy advances in wind and solar energy. Solar energy began contributing significantly in 2020, while wind energy followed, with continuous growth up to 2025. These developments highlight a growing commitment to diversifying the energy mix with clean sources, but greater and more ambitious strides are necessary to transform the energy sector towards sustainability.
