Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy has presented a draft National Plan for the development of coal-fired power generation, proposing 7.6 gigawatts of new and modernized capacity.

With preliminary implementation costs estimated at over eight trillion tenge, the plan aims to address the country’s long-term energy deficit and overhaul aging power infrastructure, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

The concept envisages construction of six major energy facilities, including Ekibastuz GRES-3, as well as new thermal power plants in Kurchatov, Kokshetau, Semey, Ust Kamenogorsk, and Zhezkazgan. At the same time, authorities are considering technical upgrades at existing stations such as Ekibastuz GRES-2 and Aksu GRES.

New power projects will be implemented through competitive investor tenders, while modernization of existing facilities will take place under investment agreements with the ministry. Officials say these mechanisms are designed to ensure transparency, secure returns for investors, and maintain predictable tariffs through long-term contracts.

Energy Minister Almasadam Akkenzhenov said special emphasis is being placed on “clean coal” technologies. “Our goal is the gradual replacement of outdated capacities with modern, high-efficiency units that minimize emissions, while maintaining a careful balance between environmental standards and energy security,” he noted.

The ministry added that successful integration of new capacity will require coordination with coal mining expansion and railway infrastructure upgrades, including eliminating logistical bottlenecks. The social component of the plan includes workforce protection measures and specialized housing programs to be implemented in cooperation with Otbasy Bank.