Saudi ACWA Power to build a wind power plant in Kazakhstan's Zhetysu region by 2029 - Samruk-Kazyna

ASTANA. Nov 17 (Interfax) - The commissioning date for a wind power plant to be built by Saudi Arabia's ACWA Power in Kazakhstan's Zhetysu region is scheduled for 2029, according to the press service of JSC National Welfare Fund Samruk-Kazyna.

Samruk-Kazyna officials and ACWA Power representatives reviewed their positions on the project that "involves constructing a 1 GW wind power plant near the Dzungarian Gate in the Zhetysu region, with an expected operational date in 2029."

The parties agreed to sign project-related agreements during the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in Dubai from November 30 to December 12, 2023.

Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov previously asked the government to expedite procedures for joint investment projects with Saudi Arabia, especially for the wind farm in the Zhetysu region.

A memorandum with ACWA Power Company for the wind farm project in southeast Kazakhstan was signed in July 2022, and in March 2023, an agreement was reached on the principles governing the implementation of joint projects. Construction is planned to commence in 2025, subject to reaching a final agreement.

Saudi Arabia's Acwa Power, a global leader in renewable energy, has a portfolio that spans 12 countries and includes various renewable energy sources like solar, geothermal, and wind power.

The Dzungarian Gate is a mountain pass between the Dzungarian Alatau and the Barlyk Ridge. Its distinctive geography naturally funnels strong winds, making it an excellent site for wind energy projects. The area includes Lake Alakol, a well-liked resort, and the Dostyk - Alashankou international railway crossing between Kazakhstan and China.