Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic – A kick-off meeting “Conducting a Pre-Feasibility Study – the First Step to Develop Small Hydropower Projects” was held in Bishkek and gathered the national and international experts. The meeting was organised jointly by the Ministry of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Green Energy Fund under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, and the European Union (EU) funded SECCA project.

As part of the Kyrgyz Government’s plans to develop renewable energy sources, the country is re-discovering small hydropower (SHP). The government and private investors are building small hydropower plants (SHPP) across the country.

In December 2023, SECCA agreed with the Green Energy Fund to develop a model pre-feasibility study for a SHPP. For that, SECCA has set up a SHP team consisting of international and national experts. A pre-feasibility study is an important and integral part of SHP development. It is an early stage analysis to identify sites with enough hydraulic and economic potential. If the pre-feasibility study shows a positive base-case scenario, the investor will likely move on to the next stage, an in-depth feasibility study.

At the kick-off meeting, the representatives of SECCA presented their latest activities and plans in the field of SHP development. The experts considered the experience of the EU, the Kyrgyz Republic, and other Central Asian countries. The SHP team members presented their plans for the pre-feasibility study.

Meeting agenda and presentations

Background information:

Starting from May 2023, the SECCA project has been providing technical support to the Ministry of Energy and the Green Energy Fund of the Kyrgyz Republic in development of  renewable energy sources (RES). The necessary steps to be taken from RES policy development to project implementation were first introduced in one of the sessions of the Conference held within the First EU–Kyrgyzstan Sustainable Energy Days campaign; while practical aspects of small-scale RES development with a focus on small hydropower, through state-owned specialized Funds were presented in October 2023, at a technical workshop held in Bishkek. In November 2023, with the SECCA project’s support, the Kyrgyz Green Energy Fund signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Georgian Energy Development Fund (GEDF). In December 2023, SECCA and the Green Energy Fund agreed to develop a model pre-feasibility study for a SHPP. In February 2024, the Karakol-1 SHPP was pre-selected for the pre-feasibility study.

Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic – Representatives of the Ministry of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, international and regional organisations, as well as the experts of the European Union (EU) funded SECCA project gathered at the Round table “Assessment of biomass potential for the Kyrgyz Republic”. The event was organised jointly by the Ministry of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic and the SECCA project.

In line with its work plan, the SECCA project provides technical support for the assessment of the biomass potential for energy production for the Central Asian (CA) countries. For this purpose, SECCA experts have developed:

1. Methodology for the comprehensive assessment of the potential of (1.a) Solid biomass (agricultural residues, wood biomass, energy crops); (1.b) Biofuels (biodiesel, bioethanol); and (1.c) Biogas/biomethane from different types of feedstock;
2. Concept for improving technologies for processing biomass to energy, biogas and liquid biofuels in CA countries;
3. Detailed assessment of theoretical, technical and economically feasible biomass potential for Kyrgyzstan and rough assessments for Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

At the Round table, the participants reviewed and discussed the results of the assessment of biomass potential for Kyrgyzstan conducted by SECCA’s Biomass Energy Expert. The expert reported that, based on 2021 data, this potential was about 0.8 million tons of oil equivalent per year, which is equivalent to 1.14 million tons of standard fuel. In 2021, this amounted to 6.46% of the fuel and energy balance of the Kyrgyz Republic. The assessment, thus, confirms that the Kyrgyz Republic has significant biomass potential available for the production of various types of biofuels and energy.

The SECCA experts also presented experience of using biomass for producing energy, biogas, and biofuels in Latvia, Moldova, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan.

Round table agenda and presentations

Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic – The Public Buildings Inventory and Energy Management System (EMS) were the main topics of discussion at a round table “Energy efficiency in public buildings – from inventory to implementation of measures”. The event was organised jointly by the Ministry of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic and the European Union (EU) funded SECCA project.

Kyrgyzstan has committed to an annual reduction in the energy intensity of GDP from 1-1.6% to 9.6% by 2025. Energy efficiency (EE) in the building sector is one of the priority areas of the national energy policy.

At the round table, the SECCA experts presented the approaches of the EU, its Member States, and Energy Community Contracting Parties to promotion of EE in buildings and implementation of EMS for municipalities.

Previously, based on the EU experience, the SECCA project had offered a technical support in the development of a Pilot Inventory of Public Buildings to the Science and Research Institute of Energy under the Ministry of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic (Institute). The initial analysis of data shows a quite large discrepancy in data provided on specific energy consumption by square meter. The experts conclude that further analysis of the reasons of deviations is required with the overall purpose to perform data verification and in-depth analysis of the reasons for the deviations of specific energy consumption through correspondence with the owners of the pilot inventory buildings and site visits, if necessary, to review technical documentation and energy bills. This can also be considered as a first step to introduce and demonstrate the implementation of EMS elements in practice.

It is noteworthy, that at the recommendation of the SECCA project, the Institute recently conducted the first training of energy managers. The energy managers’ responsibilities are to ensure reasonable and economical use of electrical and thermal energy, as well as budgetary funds within an organisation.

SECCA will continue supporting the Institute in establishing practices and internal procedures for data verification for the purpose of developing the inventory of public buildings.

Round table materials

Mary, Turkmenistan – The International Scientific Conference “Renewable Energy Sources Transition – the Energy of the Future” was organised by the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, the Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan, and the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan. Held in the hybrid format, the event gathered representatives of the academic and expert communities.

The dynamic agenda involved a site visit to the traveling exhibition of innovative technologies of the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan and the German Society for International Cooperation, as well as presentations and discussions by the national and international energy experts, including from the European Union (EU), the Energy Community Contracting Parties, and other countries of Central Asia.

The EU-funded SECCA project took part online and was represented by Team Leader / Key Expert 1 Paata Janelidze, Key Expert 2 Ilze Purina, international consultants Agris Kamenders, Nicolae Zacharia, and Zhaxylyk Tokayev. The experts contributed to the plenary session discussion, as well as to the sessions on innovative technologies in the field of renewable energy sources, having delivered, in particular, presentations on practical application of the EU best practices in promoting sustainable energy in Central Asia, energy efficient building certifications, energy service companies and energy performance contracting, and the experience of Kazakhstan in renewable energy development.

Tashkent, Uzbekistan – The round table “Perspectives of ESCO in Uzbekistan” was organised with the aim to help national stakeholders address the level of effort required to implement the ESCO mechanism.

This event was organised jointly by the Agency for Strategic Reforms under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Fund for Reconstruction and Development of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and the European Union’s SECCA project.

The discussion specifically focused on assessing the resources needed to start developing a comprehensive roadmap. The participants considered procurement, financial, and operational challenges, whereas the SECCA project experts offered practical solutions. The round table sought to enhance the capacities of local companies and the energy audit market. The event fostered a collaborative environment to share insights and strategies for successful ESCO implementation in Uzbekistan.

This round table followed the Regional Technical Workshop “ESCO – from theory to implementation practice”, which took place on 26 June 2024.

Tashkent, Uzbekistan – Experts from the countries of Central Asia (CA) and the European Union (EU) attended the Regional Technical Workshop “ESCO – from theory to implementation practice”. This workshop was organised jointly by the Agency for Strategic Reforms under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Fund for Reconstruction and Development of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and the EU’s SECCA project.

Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable energy by enhancing energy efficiency (EE) and integrating renewable energy (RE) solutions. ESCOs provide comprehensive energy solutions, including energy audits, project design, financing, implementation, and ongoing maintenance. By guaranteeing energy savings and improving energy performance, ESCOs help reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also provides significant economic benefits by lowering energy costs and fostering the adoption of innovative energy technologies. Through their expertise and financial models, ESCOs drive the transition towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.

The participants reviewed and discussed the main elements of the ESCO&SuperESCO, including examples from different industries, and the experience and lessons learned of the EU Member States, Energy Community Contracting Parties, and CA countries in promoting the ESCO concept and practical implementation of projects. The workshop increased awareness of the wide range of stakeholders about the ESCO&SuperESCO models of financing EE.

The workshop was followed by a Roundtable on perspectives of ESCO in Uzbekistan, which took place on 27 June 2024.

Dushanbe, Tajikistan – The representatives of the government bodies, science and research institutions of Tajikistan, the European Union (EU) and international organisations gathered at the Regional Conference “Prospects for Renewable Energy Development in the Republic of Tajikistan”.

The event was organised by the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of Tajikistan, National Academy of Science of Tajikistan, and Association of Renewable Energy of Tajikistan, in partnership with the EU, GIZ, UNDP, and USAID.

Tajikistan’s hydropower potential is three times higher than the current electricity consumption across the country, as reported by the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources. In recent years, the country has been facing new challenges in the energy sector. The hydropower sector is particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of climate change, which cause a rapid melting of glaciers – the main source of water for hydroelectric power plants. Therefore, the Government pays special attention to the widespread use of renewable energy (RE) sources as a resource for diversifying electricity generation.

During the presentations and discussions at the Conference, the delegates reviewed ongoing RE and green economy initiatives in Central Asia, the challenges faced by the region and the energy sector, as well as the prospects for deployment of RE projects, including their technical, economic and financial aspects. The development partners – the EU (through its SECCA project), GIZ, UNDP, and USAID – presented on their current support to Tajikistan and other Central Asian countries. The SECCA project moderated the Conference session on implementation of rooftop solar initiatives in Tajikistan and reported on its ongoing work in the area.

Temirtau, Kazakhstan – II Interregional Forum of Environmental Initiatives SAF AUA took place in Temirtau.

The goal of the event was to draw attention to the environmental problems of industrial regions and find ways to solve them. The Forum was organised by the Kazakhstan Association ECOJER with the support of the European Union (through its project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)”), the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and local executive bodies.

“Clean air, healthy nature – these are not just words, these are the future of our children, and the basis for the well-being of Kazakhstan. That is why we are holding the SAF AUA Forum in Temirtau, in the region where environmental issues require special attention and comprehensive solutions. We believe that joint efforts of the state, business and the public, the involvement of advanced technologies and a responsible approach to industrial development can change the situation for the better. Let not only economic successes, but also the clean environment of the regions become an example for the whole country. This is exactly what we are striving for”, said Lazzat Ramazanova, Chairperson of the Board of the Kazakhstan Association ECOJER.

The representatives of QARMET JSC presented the development strategy for the coming years, taking into account the reduction of the impact on the environment. It was noted that in the context of the transition to carbon neutrality, coal degassing and coal chemistry are becoming strategically important areas for the development of the coal industry in Kazakhstan. Despite the decline in the consumption of coal as a fuel, its processing, including pyrolysis, gasification and hydrogenation, opens up opportunities for the production of a variety of organic and inorganic products. The development of coal chemistry in Kazakhstan will help create new jobs, open new markets and satisfy domestic demand.

In general, the Development Program of the Karaganda region today includes projects aimed at achieving environmental safety. Among them there are projects to introduce alternative energy sources, install containers for separate waste collection, create green areas by planting 1 million trees annually, and most importantly, the project of gasification of industrial enterprises in the region.

The implementation of the Automated Environmental Monitoring System was discussed separately. It was noted that in regions where the system is actively used, the level of air pollution has decreased by 15-20% over the past five years, the frequency of environmental accidents and emergencies has also decreased by 10-12% due to the prompt identification and elimination of potential threats.

The participants also noted that in Kazakhstan there is an urgent need for a comprehensive solution to the issue of waste processing. Today, more than 1,000 enterprises are facing the shortage of high-quality raw materials, resulting in underutilization of their production capacities. To fix the situation, it is planned to implement 94 investment projects in the field of waste management for a total amount of more than 230 billion KZT. In particular, 49 waste sorting complexes will be built, and 45 waste processing enterprises will be modernized, which will create more than 800 new jobs.

The forum discussed issues of energy transformation of industry, strategies for increasing the energy efficiency of buildings and the introduction of green technologies in construction.

“The relationship between energy and the environment is obvious. The sustainability of our planet largely depends on how harmonious this relationship is. Decoupling economic growth from the consumption of resources with a high carbon footprint is a strategic priority for both the European Union and Kazakhstan. In this regard, the creation of a fair carbon pricing system will allow Kazakhstan to more effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The European Union fully supports Kazakhstan’s goals of bringing the European and Kazakh emissions trading systems closer together. We highly appreciate the efforts of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources to constantly analyze the situation with the Carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) and, for our part, are ready to provide all the necessary information”, said Robert Brudzynski, Programme Manager at the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Based on the results of the Forum, a resolution will be prepared with specific proposals and recommendations that will be sent to government bodies, business structures and international organizations.

The Forum was attended by the representatives of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Delegation of the European Union to Kazakhstan, deputies of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, representatives of international organizations and the scientific community, as well as environmental and social activists.

Temirtau, Kazakhstan – Mr Robert Brudzynski, Programme Manager at the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to the Republic of Kazakhstan awarded the winners and participants of the Students’ Debate on Sustainable Energy held at Karaganda Industrial University. At the Award Ceremony, organised as part of the Second EU–Kazakhstan Sustainable Energy Days (SEDs), he announced the main prize – an online study course on climate, sustainable energy, and solutions for energy efficiency and renewable energy deployment for the students and faculty members of the Karaganda Industrial University delivered by the Florence School of Regulation (Italy), a European centre of excellence for innovative trainings on energy and climate.

The Ceremony took place during the Interregional Forum of Environmental Initiatives “SAF AUA” organised jointly by the ECOJER Association and the EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” with the support of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Kazakhstan, as well as Akimats of the Karaganda region and the town of Temirtau.

Addressing the Ceremony participants, Mr Brudzynski said: “The EU–Kazakhstan Sustainable Energy Days in Temirtau aim to contribute positively to the region’s sustainable development. Cooperation and involvement of local communities is crucial in this regard. We appreciate the active participation of the Karaganda Industrial University, its professors and students. I hope that the new knowledge and skills that you have acquired during these days will empower you to drive innovation and shape the energy future for Kazakhstan”.

The SEDs campaign events at the Karaganda Industrial University took place on 3-4 June 2024 and involved more than 80 students and faculty members. They aimed to raise awareness among the youth about sustainable and just energy transition in response to challenges to the environment and climate caused by production and consumption of energy and greenhouse gas emissions. The students attended the lectures on energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions delivered by the European and Kazakhstani experts and, at the Students’ Debate, they argued on the best sustainable energy solutions for Temirtau.

Background:

The European Union is an economic and political union of 27 European countries. It is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. It acts globally to promote sustainable development of societies, environment and economies, so that everyone can benefit.

The European Union – Kazakhstan Sustainable Energy Days is part of the broader European Union – Central Asia Sustainable Energy Days campaign. Its purpose is to enhance the awareness of national stakeholders and the public in the region of Central Asia on the significance, benefits and accessibility of sustainable energy and the interlinkage between energy and climate change. It also represents a global edition of EU Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW), the largest annual event dedicated to renewables and efficient energy use in Europe, initiated in 2007 by the European Commission. The campaign is organised yearly in the countries of Central Asia by the EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)”.

The EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” (from March 2022 to March 2026) aims to promote a sustainable energy mix in the Central Asia region in line with EU best practices. To fulfil its mission, SECCA strives to provide for strengthened and more inclusive policy, regulatory and institutional framework for the transition to a sustainable energy system, within a regional context, and focuses on contributing to the fulfilment of international human rights commitments in CA countries, including equal access to energy, and supporting gender inclusive policies and legislation for energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). The project activities include capacity development for EE and RE deployment, awareness raising on EE and RE, and improving investment climate for EE and RE projects.

For additional information, please contact Mrs Yelena Serebrennikova, Communication strategist, SECCA, email: media@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77019814020, Mrs Nurgul Smagulova-Dulic, Digital Communication and Media Relations Expert, SECCA, email: nurgul.smagulova@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77012066760, or the EU Delegation to Kazakhstan: delegation-kazakhstan-pic@eeas.europa.eu.

Temirtau, Kazakhstan – Based on the European Union (EU) experience, the EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” in close cooperation with the Ministry of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan work on a wider dissemination of building energy efficiency labelling in Kazakhstan, which has been implemented in the country since 2012, when the Law on Energy Saving was adopted.

At the Second Interregional Forum of Environmental Initiatives “SAF AUA” organised jointly by the ECOJER Association and the SECCA Project in Temirtau on 4 June 2024 within the EU–Kazakhstan Sustainable Energy Days, representatives of the EU and the Ministry of Industry and Construction presented the Energy Efficiency Labels to two schools – the Kosshy School Gymnasium and the Kazakh School Lyceum in the town of Qonayev. These two school buildings scored the highest on energy efficiency among other analysed 100 new public schools and received “A” and “B” ratings accordingly.

Mr Robert Brudzynski, Programme Manager at the EU Delegation to Kazakhstan, said: “I am proud that with the EU support this European practice is now being implemented in Kazakhstan. In the EU, we call these labels energy performance certificates. I am pleased that the new public buildings in Kazakhstan, such as these two schools, are built with consideration of energy saving and energy efficiency standards. Healthy buildings, healthy people – let us always remember that. Energy efficiency labelling of buildings is one step closer towards reducing emissions, caring more for the nature and its resources, ensuring public health and well-being and, ultimately, achieving climate-neutrality goals”.

The building energy efficiency labelling promotes energy savings by visualising the amount of energy consumed by a building with the aim to reduce its operating costs and environmental impact. This also aligns with Kazakhstan’s energy policy priorities. In his 2023 State of the Nation Address, Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasised the urgent need to enhance the country’s energy security through conservation of natural resources, reduction of energy consumption and improvement of energy efficiency. At the next stage of work, the SECCA project and the Ministry of Industry and Construction will issue the energy efficiency labels to the rest of public schools, kindergartens, and healthcare facilities.

Background:

The European Union is an economic and political union of 27 European countries. It is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. It acts globally to promote sustainable development of societies, environment and economies, so that everyone can benefit.

The European Union – Kazakhstan Sustainable Energy Days is part of the broader European Union – Central Asia Sustainable Energy Days campaign. Its purpose is to enhance the awareness of national stakeholders and the public in the region of Central Asia on the significance, benefits and accessibility of sustainable energy and the interlinkage between energy and climate change. It also represents a global edition of EU Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW), the largest annual event dedicated to renewables and efficient energy use in Europe, initiated in 2007 by the European Commission. The campaign is organised yearly in the countries of Central Asia by the EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)”.

The EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” (from March 2022 to March 2026) aims to promote a sustainable energy mix in the Central Asia region in line with EU best practices. To fulfil its mission, SECCA strives to provide for strengthened and more inclusive policy, regulatory and institutional framework for the transition to a sustainable energy system, within a regional context, and focuses on contributing to the fulfilment of international human rights commitments in CA countries, including equal access to energy, and supporting gender inclusive policies and legislation for energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). The project activities include capacity development for EE and RE deployment, awareness raising on EE and RE, and improving investment climate for EE and RE projects.

For additional information, please contact Mrs Yelena Serebrennikova, Communication strategist, SECCA, email: media@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77019814020, Mrs Nurgul Smagulova-Dulic, Digital Communication and Media Relations Expert, SECCA, email: nurgul.smagulova@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77012066760, or the EU Delegation to Kazakhstan: delegation-kazakhstan-pic@eeas.europa.eu.