In February of 2023, the initial phase of the tender for constructing a new combined cycle gas turbine unit as part of Almaty CHP-2 conversion to gas project will conclude. During the same year, a contractor will be chosen for the station, and construction and installation works will commence. By 2025, the reconstruction of Almaty CHP-3 will be finished, including the launch of two combined cycle gas turbine units with a total capacity of 543.6 MW. In December 2023, there are plans to commission the restored power unit No. 1 with a capacity of 500 MW at Ekibastuz SDPP-1, and efforts will persist to expand Ekibastuz SDPP-2 by adding two new power units. Initial pre-project activities for the construction of Ekibastuz SDPP-3 are already in progress.
The meeting in Almaty city, which took place during a business trip by Samruk-Kazyna's Chairman of the Board, Almassadam Satkaliyev, to the facilities of “Samruk-Energy” JSC's Almaty energy complex, centered on the execution of significant energy sector projects.
As per the Fund's CEO, energy sector plays a pivotal role in the nation's economic development. Without sufficient available energy capacity, Kazakhstan cannot advance its industry or other vital sectors of the economy.
During the meeting, the heads of companies within “Samruk-Energy” JSC group, namely “Almaty Power Plants” JSC and “Alatau Zharyk Company” JSC, unveiled an array of ongoing projects in the region. Additionally, representatives from “QazaqGaz” NC” JSC provided updates on the progress of external gas infrastructure construction for Almaty CHP-2 and CHP-3.
Serik Tutebayev, the head of “Samruk-Energy” JSC, highlighted that essential infrastructure projects in the nation's energy sector are unfolding in the Ekibastuz and Almaty energy complexes. Some new facilities are already operational, while others are expected to be completed by 2030. These projects include:
- The rehabilitation of power unit No. 1 at SDPP-1, featuring the installation of new electrostatic precipitators. This endeavor will boost the station's capacity to the planned 4,000 MW, with construction and installation work set to conclude and the unit commissioned in December 2023.
- The expansion and reconstruction of Ekibastuz SDPP-2, incorporating the installation of power unit No. 3. This addition will increase the plant's installed capacity by 636 MW, resulting in an additional 4.8 billion kWh per year. The project is planned to be completed by 2026.
- The expansion and reconstruction of Ekibastuz SDPP-2, involving the installation of power unit No. 4. This initiative will raise the plant's installed capacity by 636 MW, providing an extra 4.8 billion kWh annually. The anticipated implementation period is 2027.
- The expansion and reconstruction of Ekibastuz SDPP-2, incorporating the installation of power units No. 5 and No. 6. This project is expected to be carried out between 2029 and 2030.
- The construction of Ekibastuz SDPP-3, a new plant with an increased capacity of 1200 MW. It will utilize existing infrastructure and employ cutting-edge technologies to reduce emissions into the environment. The timeline for this project is 2028 to 2029.
- The reconstruction of cable networks in Almaty and Almaty region. This project aims to reduce losses in cable lines and minimize emergency shutdowns. It will be implemented in phases until 2030.
- The development of the Shelek energy center's networks. The Almaty region holds significant potential for renewable energy sources, and this initiative will enhance the network economy of the Shelek energy hub to harness the region's renewable energy construction potential. This project is set for implementation in 2025.
- The construction of the counter-regulating Kerbulak HPP on the Ili River, intended to boost the regulating capacity of the Kapshagai HPP from 80 to 150 MW. The implementation period for this project is 2026.
- The modernization of Almaty CHP-2 with a focus on minimizing its environmental impact. The construction of a new facility at the site of the old one will reduce environmental harm in Almaty by transitioning CHP-2 to firing natural gas. An open two-stage international tender has been initiated, and facility agreement has been signed with the EBRD. In April, similar loan agreements are scheduled to be signed with ADB and DBK. The anticipated implementation period is 2026.
- The reconstruction of Almaty CHP-3, based on a CCGT unit, is aimed at increasing the station's capacity to 544 MW. This project involves the installation of combined cycle equipment to partially address the shortage of flexible capacity in the southern region of Kazakhstan, thereby supporting the development of renewable energy in the area. The implementation period is 2025.
- The construction of the "Kokozek" Substation with a connection to the outdoor switchgear of the "Kaskelen" Substation. This project's execution will facilitate the development of the industrial zone in the Karasai district of Almaty region, with a planned completion date in 2023.
In addition to addressing technological, procedural, and financial aspects, the meeting also explored problematic issues and strategies to resolve them. As a result of the meeting, the head of the Fund issued a series of instructions for swift execution.