A major investment strategy confronts coal dependence and infrastructure challenges.
ASTANA
Kazakhstan is seeking approximately €18 billion in public and private investment to accelerate its transition toward cleaner energy, with plans to install 10 gigawatts of additional renewable electricity capacity by 2035. The initiative, supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), aims to modernize the country’s power system while addressing the economic consequences for communities dependent on fossil fuels.
The investment framework, known as QaJET, forms part of Kazakhstan’s Just Energy Transition strategy. It brings together renewable generation, electricity infrastructure, industrial electrification and measures intended to support workers affected by changes in the energy sector.
The proposed financing represents an investment target rather than money already secured. Its implementation will depend on project development, regulatory conditions and commitments from public institutions and private investors.
According to the EBRD, the program could reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by more than 20 million tonnes, equivalent to approximately 7% of Kazakhstan’s energy-related emissions.
The country faces substantial structural challenges. Fossil fuels continue to dominate electricity generation, while aging infrastructure and limited grid flexibility complicate the integration of variable renewable sources.
Approximately half of QaJET’s proposed financing would support new renewable capacity. Another quarter would strengthen electricity networks and system reliability, with the remaining resources directed toward electrification and related modernization.
Projects already identified exceed €1 billion in combined value.
Among them is the Mirny wind farm in the Zhambyl region, a proposed 1-gigawatt installation incorporating battery storage. Developed by TotalEnergies and Kazakh partners, the project is scheduled to begin operations in 2028.
Another initiative involves modernizing electricity distribution infrastructure in Almaty. The EBRD is providing financing of up to €194 million to improve network equipment, automated metering and remote-control capabilities.
These investments address an important limitation of renewable energy expansion: installing additional wind or solar capacity does not automatically guarantee reliable electricity delivery.
Transmission networks, storage systems and operational flexibility must develop alongside new generating facilities.
The social dimension is equally significant. Regions such as Karaganda and East Kazakhstan depend heavily on conventional power generation and industrial activity. A rapid transition without workforce preparation could create economic disruption.
Kazakh authorities therefore intend to assess regional employment vulnerabilities and identify training and investment opportunities for affected communities.
The government is also seeking international cooperation with European institutions, climate funds and private investors. Competitive auctions and long-term electricity purchase agreements are expected to improve financial predictability for developers.
Kazakhstan has established a national objective of carbon neutrality by 2060. QaJET represents one financing mechanism intended to translate that commitment into infrastructure investment.
Whether the strategy succeeds will depend on more than its headline value. Transparent financing, viable projects, grid modernization and measurable emissions reductions will determine its economic and environmental significance.
The initiative illustrates how energy transitions increasingly involve industrial competitiveness, financial institutions and regional employment alongside climate policy.
Kazakhstan has defined an ambitious investment pathway. The next challenge is converting that ambition into functioning infrastructure and sustained economic transformation.
Beyond the Numbers, the Consequences.