According to Javokhir Badalov, a leading researcher at the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies, an investment agreement was signed between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan on the eve of the meeting of the heads of state. Earlier, on January 6, in Bishkek, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan signed a “roadmap” for the implementation of the project. The construction of a dam with a height of 256 m and a reservoir with a capacity of 5.4 billion cubic meters is envisaged. The HPP is expected to generate 5.6 billion kWh of electricity per year.
The expert believes that a characteristic feature of the HPP is the first of its kind joint mega-project in the recent history of the region with the participation of three countries. The parties are joining forces to use the powerful hydropower potential of Central Asia, which is 930 billion kWh. in year. At the same time, despite the measures taken, to date it has been mastered by only 11%.
Of course, the implementation of the Kambarata HPP-1 is becoming increasingly important against the backdrop of a steady increase in Central Asia's demand for cheap and environmentally friendly energy. This is due to the dynamic growth of the economy and population, the deepening of industrial cooperation in the region. It is expected that by 2030 electricity consumption in Kazakhstan will amount to 136 billion kWh (an increase of 21% compared to 2020), in Uzbekistan - 120.8 billion kWh (an increase of 1.7 times), in Kyrgyzstan – more than 20 billion kWh. (growth by 50%).
In this vein, the planned HPP will ensure the creation of additional generating capacities that can be integrated into a single energy ring of Central Asia. This will increase the reliability of providing the domestic regional market with cheap electricity. Thus, one more step will be taken towards the formation of a common energy market. Moreover, the released energy resources can be supplied to the markets of third countries. It is expected that the commissioning of the Kambarata HPP-1 will make it possible to export energy worth $234 million annually.
Last but not least, the implementation of the project will become an important factor in ensuring food security in Central Asia. Irrigation needs will be met through more efficient management of the water resources of the Naryn River. This is especially true in the summer months, when there is a shortage of water due to high temperatures.
“Moreover, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan have recently been developing agro-industrial cooperation. Today, both countries are taking measures to implement joint projects for the cultivation of fruits and vegetables, the supply of cattle, etc. The implementation of the project will play an important role not only in providing irrigated lands with water, but also in the uninterrupted supply of industrial facilities with electricity,” Javokhir Badalov said.
