Published
03/19/2026, 16:50The deterioration of energy infrastructure in Central Asian countries has reached critical levels – up to 80% – whilst electricity losses in the grids amount to as much as 20%. These figures are cited by Demir Kabybaev, a senior analyst at the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB), in an analysis of the energy sector.
According to the bank’s estimates, the condition of the grids remains one of the key factors limiting energy security. The situation is exacerbated by rising demand for electricity, a shortage of reserve capacity and poor diversification of generation.
At the same time, structural imbalances in tariff policy persist: electricity prices remain below cost, which limits the industry’s modernisation potential and leads to cross-subsidisation.
Regarding sustainability, the EDB highlights the energy sector’s high carbon intensity and dependence on hydropower, which makes the system vulnerable to climate change.
The bank emphasises that without infrastructure upgrades and investment, current levels of wear and tear will increase pressure on the region’s power system.
