The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Kazakhstan Electricity Grid Operating Company (KEGOC) have signed a financing agreement worth 58.2 billion tenge (approximately $123 million) to enhance the high-voltage transmission network in southern Kazakhstan. This initiative aims to integrate large-scale renewable energy into the grid, reinforce power transmission stability, and bolster Kazakhstan's energy security.
The funding will support the construction of 500-kilovolt (kV) overhead transmission lines and the upgrade of key substations in Shu, Jambyl, and Shymkent. These upgrades are expected to increase transmission capacity by 75%, reduce transmission losses, and eliminate overloading, thereby improving energy supply stability.
“ADB's collaboration with KEGOC will help Kazakhstan meet its net-zero emissions goals and advance its renewable energy targets. This project will modernize the grid, enhance its capability for integrating utility-scale renewable energy, and reduce power transmission losses and economically harmful outages,” said Suzanne Gaboury, ADB's Director General for Private Sector Operations.
Beyond infrastructure improvements, ADB will assist KEGOC in adopting gender-inclusive workplace standards and supporting women in the energy sector. The bank will also provide technical advice on renewable energy grid integration and capacity building.
Since 2017, ADB has been involved in supporting grid enhancement efforts in Central West Asia through its Knowledge and Support Technical Assistance program. Established in 1997, KEGOC is the system operator of Kazakhstan's Unified Energy System (UES) and contributes to the development of a sustainable electricity system, supporting the nation's energy transition and clean energy development. The Sovereign Wealth Fund Samruk-Kazyna is the majority shareholder of KEGOC.
ADB continues to foster a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, working to eradicate extreme poverty. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 68 members, including 49 from the region.
