Bishkek: Central Asia is witnessing a significant debate over the future of energy, particularly in Kyrgyzstan, where the choice between advancing nuclear energy capabilities and expanding hydropower infrastructure hangs in the balance. Amid regional moves towards nuclear power, with neighboring Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan progressing with nuclear projects, Kyrgyzstan is also considering a nuclear future to address its acute energy shortages. However, the country’s rich hydropower potential and existing commitments to hydropower projects present a challenging decision on the direction of its energy policy.

According to Trend News Agency, the discussions in Kyrgyzstan are influenced by recent developments in nuclear technology and regional cooperation. In 2022, Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Energy and Russian nuclear company Rosatom signed an agreement to potentially build a small nuclear power plant (NPP) using RITM-200N reactor technology. This project is seen as a strategic move to counter the rising energy defic
it, which reached 3.2 billion kilowatt-hours in 2023. Despite these plans, the construction site for the NPP has not yet been finalized, and the project is still in the preliminary stages of justification and public consultation.

The urgency for energy solutions is underscored by the increased electricity imports in 2023, totaling 3.5 billion kWh, marking a 24% rise from the previous year. While over 90% of Kyrgyzstan’s electricity currently comes from hydropower, recent initiatives, including the launch of small hydropower plants totaling 43.06 MW and a new floating solar power facility, highlight ongoing efforts to diversify and bolster the nation’s energy production.

The debate also extends to the environmental and safety implications of nuclear energy, especially given Kyrgyzstan’s history with uranium mining during the Soviet era. Rosatom is actively involved in remediation efforts at numerous radioactive sites across Kyrgyzstan. The recent lifting of a ban on uranium and thorium extraction by Presiden
t Sadyr Zhaparov could further complicate the situation, potentially paving the way for domestic uranium use in future nuclear facilities.

Financial considerations are also paramount, with significant costs associated with nuclear projects. For instance, similar nuclear facilities in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are projected to cost around $11 billion and up to $12 billion, respectively. Kyrgyzstan’s current external debt, standing at $4.57 billion as of July 31, adds another layer of complexity in funding such ambitious projects.

In contrast, the Kambarata HPP-1, a major hydropower project, is nearing commencement, with a planned capacity of 1,860 MW and an estimated cost of $4.5-5 billion. The project is backed by multiple international financial institutions and is expected to significantly contribute to the country’s energy needs by generating 5.6 billion kWh annually.

With these considerations, Kyrgyzstan’s energy strategy appears to be at a crossroads. The potential benefits of nuclear energy are weigh
ed against the advanced stages and lower costs of expanding hydropower facilities. The final decision will likely hinge on financial feasibility, environmental considerations, and public opinion, which the government has pledged to consider thoroughly before proceeding with the nuclear option.