Kazakhstan has granted customs duty exemptions for equipment imported for the Issyk-Kul solar power plant, a landmark project developed by Kazakhstani company “Alma-Ken Solar” in Kyrgyzstan.
Kazakhstan Supports Green Energy Development with Solar Equipment Exemption
In a significant move to foster regional green energy initiatives, Kazakhstan is backing the development of the Issyk-Kul solar power plant in Kyrgyzstan. To facilitate this project, spearheaded by the Kazakhstani company “Alma-Ken Solar,” Kazakhstan has granted crucial customs duty exemptions for the necessary equipment.
According to Kazinform, this exemption was formalized following a request from the Kyrgyz government. The decision was solidified by the Kazakh Cabinet’s Resolution No. 703 on October 28, 2025, marking a pivotal step in promoting renewable energy in Central Asia. This governmental support is vital for projects of this scale, as the basics of solar panel manufacturing involve complex and costly technology. Such exemptions align with broader regional policies, as detailed in the Kyrgyzstan Solar Panel Manufacturing Report, which highlights incentives designed to attract investment in renewable energy.
Construction of the Issyk-Kul solar power plant began on July 5, 2024. The project is a key outcome of the Kyrgyzstan-Kazakhstan Business Council’s efforts to bolster cross-border cooperation and is set to significantly increase Kyrgyzstan’s renewable energy capacity.
Kazakhstan’s First Cross-Border Renewable Energy Project with Solar Equipment Exemption
The Issyk-Kul solar power plant is poised to become one of the largest renewable energy projects in Kyrgyzstan. It will cover an expansive 300-hectare area and boast an impressive capacity of 300 megawatts, solidifying its position as a major player in the country’s energy landscape.
As reported by Kazinform, the project will be executed in three phases. The first phase, delivering 100 megawatts, is slated for completion by the end of 2025, with the entire plant expected to be fully operational by the end of 2026. Once at full capacity, the solar plant will generate approximately 600 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.
The generated electricity will be sold to Kazakhstan, helping to satisfy the nation’s growing demand for clean energy. This venture marks Kazakhstan’s first cross-border initiative in the renewable energy sector. The total investment is estimated to exceed $150 million, a figure that reflects the significant capital required for such an undertaking. A detailed solar panel manufacturing plant cost breakdown often includes acquiring specialized solar panel manufacturing machines and securing a supply chain for essential solar panel raw materials.
Economic and Environmental Benefits of the Solar Power Plant with Kazakhstan solar equipment exemption
The Issyk-Kul solar power plant is projected to deliver substantial economic and environmental advantages to Kyrgyzstan. The project will create hundreds of jobs during its construction and operational phases, providing a welcome boost to the local economy and developing a skilled workforce familiar with the solar panel manufacturing process.
Environmentally, the plant’s impact will be profound. By harnessing solar power instead of relying on fossil fuels, it will play a critical role in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. The 600 million kWh produced annually is enough to power tens of thousands of homes, displacing a significant amount of carbon-intensive energy generation and promoting sustainable development throughout the region.
Kazakhstan’s decision to exempt customs duties on imported equipment is a significant milestone that directly supports the development of critical energy infrastructure beneficial to both nations.
This project transcends being a simple energy initiative; it represents a shared commitment to a sustainable future and a cleaner environment for generations to come. As the Issyk-Kul plant becomes operational, it will undoubtedly serve as a powerful model for future collaborative renewable energy projects in the region.
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