The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has expressed its readiness to finance key energy projects in Kyrgyzstan, including the strategic Kambar-Ata Hydropower Plant-1 (HPP-1).
The announcement followed a meeting between Kyrgyz Minister of Energy Taalaibek Ibraev and ADB leadership in Manila, held on June 4, as reported by Eurasiatoday.ru.
During the talks, the parties discussed the current state and future prospects of cooperation in the energy sector. A central topic was the implementation of Kambar-Ata HPP-1—a large-scale infrastructure project deemed critical for Kyrgyzstan’s energy security.
ADB management confirmed their willingness to consider providing $130 to $150 million in funding for the first phase of the plant’s construction.
Minister Ibraev emphasized the strategic importance of the project and expressed confidence that ADB would serve as a reliable partner not only in financing, but also in providing technical and expert support.
The Kyrgyz side also proposed the development of a project roadmap, the engagement of additional international donors—including the World Bank—and the identification of optimal investment mechanisms.
Several other priority initiatives were also discussed during the meeting:
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ADB agreed to provide a $940,800 grant for the modernization of the MDM system of the Kyrgyz Energy Settlement Center;
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The parties discussed a potential new project to modernize the 800 MW Kurpsai HPP;
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ADB reaffirmed its support for expanding the floating solar power plant on the HPP-5 reservoir to 15 MW;
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They confirmed continued cooperation on the Uch-Korgon and Toktogul HPPs;
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Development of power transmission infrastructure (110–220–500 kV) was also on the agenda.
At the conclusion of the talks, the two sides agreed to hold the next round of negotiations in Kyrgyzstan.
ADB remains one of Kyrgyzstan’s key international partners in the energy sector. Its potential participation in building Kambar-Ata HPP-1 could mark a breakthrough not only for the country’s energy sustainability, but also for the entire region.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
June 5, 2025