China's East Hope Group is exploring plans to build a major coal-fired power plant in Kazakhstan as part of a wider push to expand industrial energy capacity in the region.

The proposal was discussed during a meeting between Kazakhstan’s Energy Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov and East Hope Group Chief Strategy Investment Officer Chen Lei, The Caspian Post reports via Kazinform.

Talks focused on investment projects in the Kostanay region, where the Chinese company is considering constructing a 1 GW coal-fired power plant to support a planned large-scale aluminum production complex.

Alongside coal-based energy development, East Hope Group also expressed interest in expanding into renewable energy projects and broader coal industry investments in Kazakhstan.

Akkenzhenov said the government is ready to fully support initiatives that strengthen the country’s industrial base and energy infrastructure.

He emphasized the importance of foreign investment, advanced technology transfer, localization of production, and creating high-value employment opportunities.

The discussions highlight Kazakhstan’s continued efforts to attract major international investors as it develops its industrial and energy sectors, particularly in regions with strong resource and manufacturing potential.