A launch event was held in Washington to kick off the creation of a single electricity market among the countries of Central Asia

A major energy project of strategic importance to Kyrgyzstan was launched in Washington.

The initiative is supported by the World Bank and its affiliate, the International Development Association, as part of the REMIT programme (‘Regional Energy Market Integration and Development’). It aims to modernise Kyrgyzstan’s energy sector and integrate it into a single Central Asian energy market.

The REMIT programme aims to create an open and efficient regional electricity market between Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

Modern electricity trading mechanisms will be introduced; alongside long-term contracts, a pilot platform in the ‘day-ahead market’ format will be launched. The programme also provides for the digitalisation of power systems, the optimisation of energy flow management and the widespread integration of renewable energy sources.

In the first phase of the programme, Kyrgyzstan will receive $40 million, which will be directed specifically towards the development of energy infrastructure. This includes plans for the complete modernisation of the 220 kV ‘Torobaev’ and 220 kV ‘Kristall’ substations, whose equipment has been in operation for over 50 years and is now obsolete, and which supply electricity to several districts in the Jalal-Abad region, as well as the construction of the 220 kV ‘Kristall–Yulduz’ power line to the border with Uzbekistan.

In addition, funds will be allocated for the preparation of feasibility studies, the conduct of design and engineering surveys, the development of tender documentation, the organisation of procurement procedures, the assessment of environmental and social impacts, the implementation of monitoring, as well as project management and the financing of consultancy services. All this work is being carried out in accordance with the Head of State’s directives on modernising the energy sector and strengthening the country’s energy security.

The implementation of these projects will enable a significant upgrade of Kyrgyzstan’s energy infrastructure, strengthen cross-border connections, and expand opportunities for electricity transit and export. As a result, the reliability of the country’s energy system will increase, particularly during periods of peak demand in winter. The next stages envisage the construction of 500 kV transmission grids, which will enable Kyrgyzstan to become a key energy player in Central Asia.

The REMIT programme opens up extensive opportunities for fully utilising Kyrgyzstan’s hydropower potential, commissioning new capacity and developing renewable energy sources. Furthermore, the project will help attract investment, create new jobs and have a direct impact on the country’s economic growth. At present, the level of mutual electricity trade in Central Asia remains relatively low, and the REMIT programme is designed to boost this sector by creating the conditions for the formation of a single energy space in the region. Ultimately, this initiative will not only strengthen Kyrgyzstan’s energy security but also lay a solid foundation for transforming the country into a regional energy hub in the future.