Electricity in Kazakhstan in 2024
Electricity consumption in Kazakhstan as of 2024 is predominantly reliant on fossil energy, with more than four-fifths of its power derived from such sources. Coal makes up around 55 percent of the fossil energy share, while gas accounts for almost 28 percent. In contrast, low-carbon electricity sources contribute nearly 15 percent to the overall mix. Hydropower leads among the clean energy sources at around 9.5 percent, followed by wind at approximately 3.6 percent and solar, making up close to 1.7 percent. Additionally, net imports contribute about 1.2 percent to the electricity mix. This heavy reliance on fossil fuels contributes to environmental challenges such as air pollution and climate change, painting a clear picture of areas for improvement.
Suggestions
Kazakhstan can explore strategies to significantly boost its low-carbon electricity generation by learning from countries that have successfully transitioned to greener power sources. Nuclear energy can be instrumental, as demonstrated by France, Slovakia, and Ukraine, with nuclear power comprising a substantial part of their electricity generation—68 percent, 62 percent, and 55 percent, respectively. Moreover, looking at Denmark where wind generates 52 percent of its electricity, Kazakhstan can invest in enhancing wind energy capacity, capitalizing on its geographic potential for renewable utilization. By diversifying its energy portfolio to focus on nuclear, wind, and solar, Kazakhstan can move towards cleaner, sustainable electricity production that benefits both the environment and public health.
History
Historically, Kazakhstan has seen fluctuations in its low-carbon electricity generation, particularly in hydropower. In the late 1980s and mid-1990s, hydropower saw increases followed by declines, and then a significant recovery starting in 2000. The 2010s marked a period of growth with increases in hydropower as seen in 2010, 2015, and particularly in 2016 when there was a notable boost of 2.4 TWh. More recent efforts have been marked by the development of wind energy, with steady increases in 2021 and 2023. Additionally, solar generation saw its first notable increase in 2020. By 2024, further expansion in wind and hydropower reflects Kazakhstan's ongoing commitment to enhancing its clean energy profile. This trajectory underscores the importance of sustained efforts and investments in low-carbon technologies for long-term environmental and economic benefits.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.