In the period from August 2024 to July 2025, more than half of Kazakhstan's electricity was generated from coal, contributing about 54% to the total electricity mix. Natural gas provided nearly a third, with around 29% coming from this source. Combined, these fossil-based methods contributed a significant 85% to the overall electricity production in the country. In contrast, clean energy sources accounted for about 15% of electricity generation. Among low-carbon options, hydropower led the way with approximately 10%, while wind energy delivered just over 4%, and solar energy accounted for close to 2%. This indicates a substantial reliance on fossil fuels, with clean energy sources forming a relatively small but essential part of electricity generation.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, Energy Institute and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Kazakhstan?
When considering the broader trends in electricity consumption in Kazakhstan, there's a mixed picture. The latest figures, from 2025, show an individual electricity consumption of 5769 kWh per person, which marks a slight decline from the historic high of 6105 kWh/person seen in 1990, indicating a troubling stagnation rather than growth. However, on a brighter note, low-carbon electricity generation per capita increased, reaching 878 kWh/person in 2025 compared to the previous record of 855 kWh/person in 2024. This growth, although modest, signifies steps towards a cleaner energy transition. Nevertheless, the overall decline in per capita electricity consumption reflects challenges that may hinder economic and industrial growth.
Suggestions
To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Kazakhstan can look to regions that have successfully harnessed solar and nuclear power. For instance, France generates a remarkable 69% of its electricity from nuclear energy, offering a model of how nuclear can significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels and increase sustainability. Similarly, Lebanon and Nevada, with solar shares of 31% and 30% respectively, demonstrate the potential for solar energy to make substantial contributions to the energy mix. Kazakhstan could explore expanding its nuclear capabilities and tapping into its solar potential, supported by its ample sunlight resources. Drawing inspiration from these regions, Kazakhstan can effectively enhance its clean energy footprint, reducing dependence on environmentally damaging fossil fuels.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Kazakhstan shows several notable phases. In the late 1980s, the country saw small yearly increases in hydropower output. During the mid-1990s, however, there was a concerning series of annual declines in hydropower generation. A turnaround began in the 2000s, with periods of incremental growth, particularly in 2000 and 2010. Recent years have shown substantial strides in clean electricity, particularly during the 2020s, with significant improvements in both solar and wind power generation. This recent progress indicates a positive trend towards cleaner electricity but underscores the need for Kazakhstan to sustain and amplify its efforts in harnessing low-carbon technologies to secure a sustainable energy future.
