KZBlog

I am pleased to read that Kazakhstan is considering developing more wind energy. At the moment, Kazakhstan has no wind farms, something that those of living out on the steppes are surprised to hear. The wind never stops in Astana so wind farms seem a logical choice.

Apparently for the moment though, the priority is South Kazakhstan where Kazakhstan still buys energy from Uzbekistan (and sells energy to Kyrgyzstan). Two wind farms are planned for Zhambul oblast. I can’t believe the cost: US$1 billion, apparently for 600 MW of power. Do windmills really cost that much?

In any case, it’s a good investment for clean energy. At the moment Kazakhstan is heavily dependent on oil which not only pollutes the air, but also since a lot of resources are in Caspian Sea, oil platforms pollute the water, hurt seals and lead to potential injuries from offshore accidents.