The pumped storage hydropower (PSH) facility in Changlongshan commenced operations in 2022, with electricity generation reaching 2,520 GWh in 2023. The total installed capacity of the plant is 2,100 MW.

In light of the rapid development of the economy and society, the creation of energy storage systems is becoming increasingly relevant, noted Nurlan Zhakupov, head of the Fund.

Currently, the China International Water and Electric Corporation is conducting a feasibility study to identify all potential sites for the installation of PSH facilities in Kazakhstan, as there are currently no such facilities in the republic.

"We appreciate your contribution to the development of Kazakhstan's hydropower potential, as well as your support in facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise between the professional communities of our countries", - said Nurlan Zhakupov.

For reference. Principle of operation of PSH   

There are two reservoirs—upper and lower. At night, water is pumped to the upper reservoir using electric motor-generators. 

When the peak tariff period begins, water is released down to the lower reservoir, and the same motor-generators produce electricity.

Source: @samrukkazyna_official

A roundtable discussion was held at “Samruk-Energy” JSC, featuring Kazakhstani producers. The event was organized with the support of  "Samruk-Kazyna" Fund, in collaboration with “Samruk-Kazyna Contract” LLP, to promote and develop local producers.

During the event, Askar Baltabaev, Managing Director for Procurement and Risks, highlighted the ongoing efforts of “Samruk-Energy” JSC to enhance domestic value and advance import substitution. He also discussed initiatives aimed at increasing the share of local content in procurement processes.

At the roundtable, new offtake contracts were signed with Kazakh producers, including “Nova Vision” LLP, “Kazakhstan Pipeline Systems” LLP, and “Asia Trafo” LLP, totaling over 5.3 billion tenge. In addition, a Memorandum of Cooperation was established with “Gefest Solution Qazaqstan” LLP for the project titled "Development and Implementation of Innovative Firefighting Technologies".

The roundtable also facilitated B2B meetings with local producers, focusing on specific issues related to their participation in procurement activities.

“Samruk-Energy” JSC prioritizes local producers in its tender processes. In the first nine months of 2024, the total value of procurements involving domestic producers reached over 25.5 billion tenge.

During a recent visit to the People’s Republic of China, Kairat Maxutov, Chairman of the Board of “Samruk-Energy” JSC and He Xi, Chairman of the Board of China Power International Holding, signed an agreement to develop a 1 GW wind power plant equipped with an energy storage system in the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The agreement outlines the collaborative efforts in the project’s development and coordination of activities for its implementation. During the meeting, both parties emphasized the need for joint efforts to expedite project initiatives and discussed the integration of this significant renewable energy facility into Kazakhstan's energy system.

Делегация АО «Самрук-Энерго» под руководством Председателя Правления Кайрата Максутова в рамках рабочей поездки в г. Пекин провели встречу с руководством Power China Resources.

В ходе переговоров были детально обсуждены планы по строительству ветровой и гидроэлектростанции общей мощностью 810 МВт в Казахстане.

Стороны договорились о необходимых мероприятиях по разработке технико-экономического обоснования, проведения ветроизмерительной кампании, получения отчета по оценке воздействия на окружающую среду по международным стандартам. Также стороны наметили план работ на ближайшее время по реализации проектов.

Nurlan Zhakupov, Chairman of the Management Board of “Samruk-Kazyna" JSC held a meeting in Beijing with Zhou Fugui, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sany Renewable Energy.

Earlier, during the Kazakhstan-China Business Council, a joint development agreement was signed with Sany Renewable Energy to localize the production of components for wind power plants, including blades, nacelles, and towers.

The parties discussed the current progress of the project during the meeting.

“This year, we have already held four high-level meetings in both China and Kazakhstan, highlighting the strategic nature of our partnership,” Nurlan Zhakupov noted during the discussions.

Sany Renewable Energy (a subsidiary of Sany Group) - is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of wind turbines.

Source: @samrukkazyna_official

Fitch Ratings has affirmed the long-term credit rating of JSC Samruk-Energy in both foreign and local currencies at "BB+" with a "Stable" outlook.

The rating affirmation is based on positive expectations regarding the company’s operational performance and strong government support. In 2024, the state transferred two hydropower plants to Samruk-Energy, and equity injections from “Samruk-Kazyna” JSC are planned to support the company’s investment plan in the coming years.

The agency assesses the role of state policy as "strong," given that Samruk-Energy is responsible for approximately 34% of Kazakhstan's electricity production and 40% of coal extraction, while also being a major employer and implementing several strategic projects for the state.

The confirmed rating also considers the ongoing policy of tariff increases, the presence of approved individual capacity tariffs for completed projects, and new investment agreements for projects such as SDPP-1, SDPP-2, and APP, which are set to take effect in 2025 and 2027, respectively.

Additionally, the agency notes the increasing share of international and local financial institutions in the company’s credit portfolio, indicating a high-quality debt profile. At the same time, the agency emphasizes that Samruk-Energy has sufficient liquidity and cash reserves to fully cover its short-term obligations.

Nurlan Zhakuplov, Chairman of the Management Board of “Samruk-Kazyna” JSC meets with Lu Zexiang, Chairman of China Energy International Group in Beijing

The meeting focused on expanding cooperation in the energy sector, with a particular emphasis on renewable energy initiatives.

On July 2, 2024, during the Kazakhstan-China Business Council held in Astana, “Samruk-Kazyna” JSC and China Energy Overseas Investment, a subsidiary of China Energy International Group, signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate in the field of renewable energy.

Building on this strategic partnership, today’s meeting saw Kairat Maxutov, Chairman of the Management Board of Samruk-Energy, and Lin Xiaodan, Chairman of China Energy Overseas Investment, sign an agreement for the joint development of new energy projects. 

The agreement outlines plans for the construction of a 500 MW wind power plant in the Karaganda region and a 300 MW solar power plant in the Turkestan region, supporting Kazakhstan's shift towards sustainable energy solutions.

China Energy International Group is a global leader in coal mining, thermal power, wind energy, coal processing, and water resource management.

Source: @samrukkazyna_official

Arai Serikzhanova, Senior manager of the Corporate Governance and Sustainable Development Department at "Samruk-Energy" JSC, participated in the 7th Vienna Energy Security Dialogue. 

Arai spoke during the interactive panel session "Energy Education, Efficiency, and Inclusivity for Enhancing Energy Security", where participants discussed the importance of a skilled and inclusive workforce for a successful energy transition. The session also focused on preparing future leaders in renewable energy, engaging youth, and increasing the participation of women in the energy sector. 

During her speech, Arai Serikzhanova emphasized the role of women in the energy sector and the energy transition. She noted that women make significant contributions through their multitasking abilities, flexibility, and capacity to make decisions in uncertain situations. Arai also shared her experience with the OSCE and GWNET mentorship programs, in which she participates. According to her, such programs play a crucial role in professional development, helping women in energy to strengthen their skills, expand their networks, and advance their careers. 

The forum brought together over 200 participants, including representatives from government, business, academia, and civil society. 

Automated monitoring and control systems (AMS) for air emissions have been installed at the stationary emission sources of B. Orazbayev CHP-1 and the Western Thermal Complex of  "APP" JSC. The implementation of these projects marks a significant milestone in the environmental safety program of "Samruk-Energy" JSC. The company is actively working to enhance the effectiveness of its environmental protection measures.  

The installation of the automated emission monitoring system will enable the company to track, control, and reduce the impact of its facilities on urban and natural environments. The system is designed to monitor gaseous (smoke) emissions from key stationary sources, as well as calculate the total volume of emissions for substances like nitrogen oxides (NO, NO2, NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and others. In addition, the AMS ensures the real-time transmission of data to the information system of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan. 

Currently, the AMS at CHP-1 and the WTC is undergoing testing. Data transmission channels are being configured, and integration with the Ministry's database is in progress. Once the heating season begins and the boiler units are operational, the system will commence data transmission. 

The Human Resource Management Department, in line with the HR policy plan of “Samruk-Energy” JSC, organized a meeting between participants of the company's Talent Pool and members of the Appointment and Remuneration Committee of the Board of Directors. The event, themed "Leader in the Modern World" aimed to underscore the importance of developing leadership qualities in today's evolving business environment. 

During the meeting, senior executives shared their personal career journeys, inspiring participants toward continued professional growth. 

The Talent Pool members were introduced to key tools for goal achievement. They engaged in practical exercises and exchanged ideas, proposing innovative approaches to leadership development. 

The knowledge and skills acquired will be applied by participants in their professional activities, contributing to improved operational efficiency.