Fate of nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan to be decided at nationwide referendum - President
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The final decision on the fate of the nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan will be made at the nationwide referendum, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said at a May 31 meeting with intellectual circles in Almaty, Kazinform News Agency reports referring the Akorda press service.
Kazakhstan, according to the Head of State, has embarked on the path towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. However, in order to make that happen, Kazakhstan needs to go through a complex process of in-depth transformation of its economy associated with serious challenges.
The situation is further exacerbated by the fact that in the foreseeable future, our country may face a significant electricity deficit. According to some forecasts, without decisive measures, the shortage of power capacity could reach six gigawatts by 2030. This could lead to a substantial slowdown in the pace of our economy’s growth and a systemic crisis in the housing and utilities sector, negatively impacting people’s lives," emphasized the President.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev believes that nuclear energy, actively advocated for by representatives of the energy sector, could be one of the solutions to the problem.
He went on to stress that Kazakhstan holds the first place in the world in terms of the volume of naturally mined uranium.
We have our own production of nuclear fuel components. This significant competitive advantage should be utilized," Tokayev noted. "However, this matter requires broad public discussions and detailed deliberations within the professional community, free from populism and noise. I hope that the scientific community actively participates and provides its weighty input, based on principles of objectivity and pragmatism. The final decision regarding the development of nuclear energy will be made by the people at a nationwide referendum."
According to the Kazakh leader, in the context of rapid development of renewable energy sources, utmost attention should be paid to comprehensive economic diversification.
Kazakhstan, in his words, has tremendous potential in the production of green hydrogen, and breakthrough projects in this field are already underway.
It is essential to establish the production of high-value-added products in the petrochemical industry, including both traditional plastics and new materials. The development of a green economy will drive demand for rare and rare-earth metals, which are crucial for battery production. For instance, experts estimate that to achieve carbon neutrality by mid-century Europe will require 35 times more lithium, compared to current level of consumption. Fortunately, we possess significant reserves of lithium and many other metals. We must expand geological exploration efforts and adopt the best global practices in this sector," he said.
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Olzhas Bektenov inspects progress of MAEC repair and modernisation of desalination plant in Aktau
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As part of a working trip to the Mangystau region, Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov familiarised himself with the solution of infrastructure problems and attraction of private investment in the economy on the example of the Mangystau nuclear power plant, Caspiy desalination plant and KazAzot enterprise, primeminister.kz reports.
The relevant instructions were given by the President in his Address to the Nation "Fair Kazakhstan: Law and Order, Economic Growth, Public Optimism".
In Aktau, the head of the Government familiarised himself with the progress of repair work at MAEK, which is included in the list of 19 energy sources of the red risk zone. The Head of State instructed to complete their modernisation as a priority.
The energy equipment at MAEK, which meets the needs of the region's industry and population in electricity and heat, is 79% worn out. Last year, 4.9 billion tenge was allocated from the Government reserve to carry out repair work. This year 5 billion tenge has been allocated from the republican budget. MAEK includes 3 power stations, distillate and industrial heat and water supply plant, repair plant, workshops and reactor plant. More than 3.5 thousand people work at the enterprise.
K. Urakov, General Director of MAEK LLP, reported on completion of overhaul of two boilers and one turbine by the end of September this year. At the same time, with the current MAEK capacity of 500 Gcal, the heat deficit in Mangystau region is 245 Gcal.
Olzhas Bektenov instructed the Akimat of the region and the management of the enterprise to complete the planned work in time and ensure full readiness of the enterprise, engineering infrastructure and in general housing and utilities facilities of the region for the upcoming heating season. At the same time, it was noted that the industrial development of the region and the launch of promising industries will require additional energy capacity.
As you know, the Head of State in his Address to the Nation noted the country's need for reliable sources of energy. Providing Kazakhstanis with a stable energy supply is a priority in the Government's work. Technological disruptions at enterprises should not affect the population. Therefore, in parallel with the ongoing work to modernise worn-out facilities, we need to develop alternative sustainable sources of heat and electricity. Not only the state of our economy, but first of all the quality of life of people depends on it," Olzhas Bektenov emphasised.
A national referendum on the construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan will be held on 6 October. If supported by the people, the development of nuclear power will provide the country with a reliable energy supply, create additional opportunities for the development of related industries and productive employment.
During the trip Prime Minister familiarised himself with the activities of KazAzot JSC. Export-oriented enterprise is the only producer of ammonia and ammonium nitrate in Kazakhstan. It is planned to build an ammonia and urea complex, where mineral fertilisers for agriculture and chemicals for the mining sector will be produced. The project will have a positive impact on the development of the agricultural sector by covering the need for quality domestic fertilisers and generally strengthening the country's food security.
In Aktau, Olzhas Bektenov also familiarised himself with the modernisation of the Caspian desalination plant, which provides drinking water to more than 200,000 people. Today there is still a deficit of drinking water in the region. Expansion of Caspiy desalination plant will increase the capacity of the enterprise by 2 times up to 40 thousand m3, which will increase the level of supply of drinking water to residents. An additional 5.1 billion tenge has been allocated from the Government's reserve for the implementation of the project. At the moment, the works are 95% complete: pipelines of sea water and finished products, buildings of water treatment shop, pumping station of desalinated water, tanks of various volumes and purposes have been constructed; a cable line has been laid.
The issue of providing the population with quality drinking water is under special control of the Head of State. Given the importance of the project on modernisation of desalination plant for consumers of Aktau, Munaila and Karakiyan regions, Olzhas Bektenov instructed the Ministry of Industry and Construction together with the Akimat of Mangystau region to ensure timely modernisation and commissioning by the end of this year.
In general, to gradually solve the problem of drinking water deficit in Mangystau region, 9 desalination plants and installations with a capacity of 140.5 thousand m3 of water per day are under construction. The management of the region has been instructed to take necessary measures for comprehensive support of these projects.
According to the Akimat of Mangystau region, for 8 months of this year in the region provided growth in the manufacturing industry by 7.1%, the total output in this sector reached 174.3 billion tenge. In trade growth was 4.3%, the volume - 487.5 billion tenge. Since the beginning of the year, 22.7 thousand jobs have been created. By the end of the year it is planned to bring this figure to 34.9 thousand jobs. Since the beginning of the year in the region commissioned 560.7 thousand m2 of housing.
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Olzhas Bektenov gets acquainted with Aktau, Kuryk seaports development and tourism development plans in Kenderli
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Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov got acquainted with transport, logistics and tourism potential of the region within the framework of his working trip to Mangystau region. The seaports of Aktau, Kuryk were visited, as well as prospects for the development of the resort area of Kenderli were considered, primeminister.kz reports.
During the visit to Kuryk sea port Prime Minister was informed that since the beginning of the year the volume of cargo transshipment has exceeded 1.5 million tonnes, by the end of the year the volume will be brought to 2.2 million tonnes. This year it is also planned to complete dredging works and launch a grain terminal. Work is underway to create a logistics cluster and renew the ferry fleet. Overall, the prospective design capacity is 6 million tonnes of cargo per year. The year-round seaport of Kuryk is capable of receiving road and railway ferries, and there are 4 specialised berths for this purpose.
Here Olzhas Bektenov was also presented a Kazakh-German investment project for the production of ‘green hydrogen’ used in energy, oil refining, chemical industry and others. The capacity of the enterprise will be 2 million tonnes of products. The investment amount is more than €50bn. The project will involve the construction and operation of a 40 GW desalination plant and a 40 GW renewable energy station. The project will create 1.8 thousand jobs.
Head of the Government familiarised himself with the capacities of Aktau Commercial Sea Port. The facility plays a key role in the development of the Trans-Caspian international transport route. By its technical parameters and built business processes the port meets modern international standards. The technical equipment allows handling a wide range of cargoes. As of today, the throughput capacity of the facility is over 11 million tonnes. There are three oil and three dry cargo berths, a grain terminal with an annual throughput capacity of 800,000 tonnes of agricultural products, and a ferry complex. For 8 months of this year, the volume of cargo transshipment through the port exceeded 3 million tonnes, the main destinations being Iran, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Russia, and others.
Here was also reported on plans to build a container hub on the basis of the port of Aktau. One of the largest port companies in China is involved as an investor Lianyungang Port Group LLC. It is expected that the investment project will contribute to medium- and long-term planning of transportations and create favourable conditions for cargo delivery.
Prime Minister noted the strategic importance of Mangystau region, located at the junction of international transport corridors.
The Head of State has set a strategic task for the Government - to transform our ports, turning them into one of the leading hubs of the Caspian Sea. Kazakhstan's geographical location is our advantage, which should be fully utilised. The Mangystau region has a strong transit, logistics, infrastructure and service potential that should be developed. Therefore, it is especially important to implement new projects that will expand the domestic maritime transport and logistics cluster," Olzhas Bektenov stressed.
Special attention during the working visit to the region is paid to the execution of the instructions of the Head of State, given at the meeting on the development of tourism in June this year. According to the Akimat of Mangystau region, this year the region was visited by almost 215 thousand holidaymakers, the growth compared to the same period last year was 9.5%. The volume of services rendered in the industry reached 6.5 billion tenge. For 2 years in the region 4 large investment projects on construction of hotels and recreation centres have been implemented. In 2025-2027 it is planned to launch 12 more with the creation of more than 500 jobs in the tourism sector.
One of the visiting cards of Mangystau region is Kenderli resort zone. Olzhas Bektenov was reported on plans to implement key infrastructure projects aimed at increasing tourist flow. Among them are the construction of an international airport, a water-preserving plant with a capacity of 50 thousand m3 per day, etc. At the same time, the road "Zhanaozen-Kenderli-Gr.Turkmenistan" with a total length of 156 kilometres will be covered by medium repair.
Tourism in Mangystau region has great prospects for further growth. For this purpose, the region has the sea, amazing landscapes, historical and sacred monuments. For a qualitative leap it is necessary to develop infrastructure, attract investments and build new facilities. I instruct the relevant ministries and Akimat to keep all these issues under special control," Olzhas Bektenov emphasised.
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Olzhas Bektenov checks fulfilment of President's instructions on Zhanaozen development and gets acquainted with gas processing plant construction
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Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov during a working trip to the Mangystau region familiarised himself with the measures taken on socio-economic development of the single-industry town of Zhanaozen within the framework of the tasks set by the Head of State in the Address to the Nation "Fair Kazakhstan: law and order, economic growth, social optimism", primeminister.kz reports.
In particular, the pace of modernisation of infrastructure, improving the quality of education, providing employment and other important areas have been checked.
The Head of Government familiarised himself with the plans to diversify the economy of the single-industry town with a focus on opening new industries. More than 150 thousand people live in Zhanaozen. According to forecasts, by 2035 the population will exceed 200 thousand inhabitants. Taking into account the expected growth, the importance of providing employment for the townspeople was emphasised, including through strengthening measures to support business initiatives of the population.
Attention is paid to the development of housing and communal infrastructure. Olzhas Bektenov was informed that Zhanaozen and adjacent rural settlements are 100% provided with centralised water supply, household gas and electricity. An important project for the life support of the single-industry town is the modernisation of the water treatment plant, which supplies the residents with drinking water. In order to increase the facility's capacity, it is planned to build reservoirs for accumulating water reserves in the amount of 30,000 m3 in 2025.
The industrial development of the single-industry town and the launch of new production facilities require additional volumes of electricity. To cover the growing needs, NC KazMunayGas JSC and the Italian company ENI have launched an investment project to build a hybrid power plant with a total capacity of 247 MW. The project involves the use of combined generation of RES (solar and wind energy) and the construction of a gas-fired power plant.
Olzhas Bektenov familiarised himself with the measures taken to provide residents with affordable and quality education. Thus, within the framework of the Comfortable School National Project a modern school for 1.2 thousand seats is planned to be commissioned in Zhanaozen by the end of this year. Next year it is planned to build two more comfortable schools. In addition, construction of the Bolashaq Sarayi Schoolchildren's Palace for 350 seats has begun for the comprehensive development of children and youth. The project implemented by Ozenmunaigas is one of the examples of social responsibility of business. The schoolchildren's palace is planned to be put into operation by next year.
Head of the Government was also reported on the progress of construction of a new gas processing plant in the city. The launch of the project will not only meet the needs of the population for additional volumes of gas, but most importantly will give impetus to further development of industry and creation of petrochemical products with high added value. The plant will have a production capacity of 900 billion m3 of associated petroleum and natural gas mixture, as well as 5 thousand tonnes of gas condensate per year. Construction work began in November 2023, with full completion of the two start-up complexes scheduled for early 2027.
The Prime Minister emphasised that the construction of the gas processing plant will have a wide multiplicative effect on the economic and social development of the region.
The Head of State in his Address to the Nation set a task: to provide new points of growth for the economy of single-industry towns. Special emphasis should be placed on social well-being and improving the quality of life of people. It is extremely important to support the comprehensive development of Zhanaozen as one of the largest single-industry towns in Kazakhstan. It is necessary to ensure quality and timely implementation of all social and infrastructure projects. Investments and creation of new jobs are important.
The construction of a new gas processing plant is also under special control. We have three gas processing plants, which the President has instructed to be built on time. These are Kashagan, Karachaganak and Zhanaozen. Everything must be of high quality. We will control," Olzhas Bektenov emphasised.
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President receives Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov
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Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was informed about the indicators of socio-economic development of the country, the progress of the harvesting campaign and preparation for the heating season, primeminister.kz reports.
As Olzhas Bektenov reported, economic growth for January-August was 3.7%. The largest increase was shown by the sectors of construction (8.8%), transport and warehousing (7.9%), communications (7.4%), trade (5.5%), manufacturing (4.9%).
In agriculture, the volume of concessional financing increased 3 times and reached 580 billion tenge. As of today, 70.2% of the country's area of grain and leguminous crops has been harvested and 17.2 million tonnes of grain has been threshed. Agrarians are provided with a sufficient amount of favourable fuel.
The Head of State was informed that all regions are preparing for the heating season. The readiness of social facilities has been ensured, and 98.3 per cent of residential buildings have been completed. The annual demand of power plants for coal is 60 million tonnes, the available stock meets the norm.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was acquainted with the progress of his instructions to eliminate the consequences of floods and measures to prevent floods next year. All the victims were provided with social support and compensation for damaged property. 5,767 housing units have been purchased and issued, 2,576 new houses have been built, and work is being completed on 104 objects in Akmola and West Kazakhstan regions. The plan of flood control measures is being implemented.
At the end of the meeting, the Head of State gave a number of instructions to further unlock the country's industrial potential and modernise the infrastructure.
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All necessary assistance to flood victims provided by Government - Kanat Bozumbayev
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At the Government session chaired by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov, Deputy Minister Kanat Bozumbayev reported on the ongoing work to provide assistance to those affected by floods, primeminister.kz reports.
Deputy Prime Minister noted that the flood of 2024 affected more than 120 thousand people. The state provides all necessary assistance to the victims by organising evacuation points for those left without housing, more than 34 thousand families received a lump-sum payment of 100 monthly installments for a total of 12.6 billion tenge. In addition, 150 monthly installments were paid to 21,880 families for a total of almost 10 billion tenge.
As compensation for property losses caused to small and medium-sized businesses as a result of floods, more than 10.2 billion tenge was paid on 615 approved applications.
The Rules on compensation for losses of small and medium-sized businesses will be extended until April 2025. In addition, about 3.15 billion tenge has been allocated to compensate the damage to the subjects of agro-industrial complex.
Kanat Bozumbayev also emphasised that the construction of housing for flood-affected families was carried out in an unprecedentedly short time. In 3.5-4 months, 2,576 houses were built according to standard designs and 5,767 houses and flats were bought on the secondary market. In addition, 9,156 dwellings were repaired.
This work has been fully completed in Atyrau, Aktobe, Kostanay and North Kazakhstan regions. To date, 38 houses in Akmola region and 28 houses in West Kazakhstan region are being completed. The completion date is 1 October. In Syrym district of East Kazakstan region as a result of groundwater rise 38 adobe houses have fallen into disrepair. This fact was revealed at the end of August. In this regard, it was decided to additionally build houses for residents with completion date of 15 October," Kanat Bozumbayev informed.
Deputy Prime Minister stressed that akimats of these regions should complete construction within the specified timeframe and work on testing of heating systems in all built houses.
It is noted that in total as a result of flooding in Kazakhstan was flooded about 17.6 thousand houses and dacha buildings, which are the only housing of citizens. As a result of surveys 9,156 houses were subject to repair, 8,447 houses were recognised as emergency.
New housing for the victims was provided thanks to the financial support of major domestic entrepreneurs. About 260 billion tenge of sponsorship funds were attracted to provide assistance.
In this situation, business has shown great social responsibility, but in the future it is necessary to envisage new measures and mechanisms for reimbursement of costs to victims of emergencies. It is necessary to determine the irreducible balance of the reserve for emergencies of the republican and local budgets, as well as to determine the optimal models of compulsory property insurance against emergencies, and to start work on implementation in risky areas prone to natural disasters. In addition, it is necessary to introduce a mechanism of catastrophic bonds," Kanat Bozumbayev said.
Deputy Prime Minister also noted the need to create a permanent Republican operational headquarters and give it powers to make decisions during emergencies of regional and republican scale, including the restoration of damaged property, compensation for damages, involvement of forces of organisations.
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