First Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Roman Sklyar conducted an on-site inspection of Almaty's CHP-2 and CHP-3 thermal power stations during a working visit, accompanied by Almaty Mayor Darkhan Satybaldy and representatives from relevant government agencies and implementing organizations.
CHP-2 Modernization Progress
The centerpiece of Kazakhstan's capital region energy upgrade, CHP-2 sits in the Alatau district where construction launched in 2024 under a contract awarded to a consortium of Chinese engineering firms. The project entails complete conversion to natural gas firing and the construction of a modern gas-fired facility designed to deliver up to 952 Gcal/h of thermal capacity and 600 MW of electrical capacity.
According to data presented during Sklyar's visit, 99% of all major and auxiliary equipment has arrived on-site. Installation work has finished for three gas turbine units, their associated generators, and four hot water boilers. Crews are currently advancing the installation of heat recovery steam generators, with auxiliary infrastructure and road networks already complete.
Overall construction and installation progress across key facilities has reached approximately 55%, with active work continuing on the main building, boiler house, water treatment systems, gas preparation unit, and electrical infrastructure. CHP-2 serves as the largest heat source in Almaty, and authorities expect the modernization to substantially cut emissions while preserving the reliability of the city's district heating and electricity supply.
CHP-3 Reconstruction Underway
The inspection also covered reconstruction progress at CHP-3, located in the Ili district of Almaty region. The facility has operated as part of Almaty Electric Power Stations JSC since 2007. Under the current program, a combined-cycle gas unit with a minimum capacity of 450 MW is being constructed, with worn-out legacy equipment slated for full replacement.
Unlike the CHP-2 contract, which went to Chinese firms, CHP-3 reconstruction is being handled by a consortium of Kazakh companies. Engineering surveys and earthworks have concluded, while pile foundation installation and primary infrastructure construction continue. The first gas turbine unit has already been placed on its foundation, with further mechanical and civil works proceeding on schedule.
Government Oversight and Timelines
Following his tour of both facilities, Sklyar issued directives requiring officials to maintain adherence to established project timelines, implement stricter quality control over construction activities and equipment deliveries, and guarantee that both facilities achieve commissioning within the 2026 deadline.