Should Kazakhstan invest in solar and wind energy?

Kazakhstan intends for renewable energy to constitute 30 percent of electricity generation by 2030 and 50 percent by 2050. Below I will make the case that there is significant opportunity for BRI investment to build up solar and wind energy.

Could Kazakhstan be a model for green energy development?

Kazakhstan’s energy grid has not been modernised since its independence from the Soviet Union and is falling into a state of dereliction and disrepair. With its sights set on 50 percent renewable energy by 2050 and substantial solar and wind energy capabilities, Kazakhstan could be a model for green energy development.

Should BRI invest in Kazakh wind energy?

Future BRI investment in Kazakh wind energy may be best directed toward the region of Djungar, which has not only been shown to be an especially viable area for wind energy development, but may interest Chinese firms particularly due to its proximity to the border with Xinjiang.

What is Kazakhstan's Energy Grid?

Kazakhstan’s current energy grid was developed during the Soviet Union and is heavily reliant on its interior coal, gas, and oil resources. Following independence, economic crises prevented the country from investing in the maintenance and development of the grid.

Can the BRI help rebuild Kazakhstan's Energy Grid?

Funding from the BRI offers a unique opportunity to rebuild Kazakhstan’s energy grid using renewable energy. Kazakhstan’s current energy grid was developed during the Soviet Union and is heavily reliant on its interior coal, gas, and oil resources.

How much wind energy does Kazakhstan have?

According to Karatayev and Clarke, Kazakhstan has a maximum capacity of 760 GW of wind energy that can be generated cost-effectively in the Atyrau Region and in a belt to the west of Nur- Sultan stretching across the Kostanay, Akmola, and Karagandy Regions 4.