Ust-Kamenogorsk is simultaneously boosting its energy capacity in two directions. Construction of a new power unit has begun at the existing Ust-Kamenogorsk Thermal Power Plant (TPP), while the construction of a new combined heat and power plant continues in parallel. Together, these projects are expected to increase the production of thermal and electrical energy and create a reserve for the city's further development, reports infohub.kz.
According to Kazakhstan's Ministry of Energy, the new project at the existing Ust-Kamenogorsk TPP includes the construction of a power unit comprising boiler unit No. 16 with a steam capacity of 400 tons per hour and turbine No. 13 with an electrical capacity of 100 MW.
"Expanding the existing plant will primarily help reduce the current deficit in thermal capacity. The new capacities are needed not only for the city's current needs but also with an eye to its future growth," the ministry explained.
At the same time, an even larger project is underway in Ust-Kamenogorsk: the construction of a new thermal power plant. The project is scheduled for 2025–2029. The installed electrical capacity of the future plant will be 405 MW, and thermal capacity will be 1,000 Gcal/h.
According to the Ministry of Energy, the new TPP will be equipped with four power boilers, three steam turbines, and three turbogenerators. Thus, the plant will become an additional energy source for the city and create the necessary power reserve for the future.
"For Ust-Kamenogorsk, this is another important project that will create new capacities in line with the city's growth and its needs for heat and electricity. Moreover, we are already incorporating modern environmental solutions at the construction stage," said Minister of Energy Erlan Akkenzhenov.
It is reported that the new TPP construction project has already entered the practical phase. Land plots for the plant and ash disposal area have been allocated, and key technical solutions have been approved. Geological and geodetic surveys are being conducted at the construction site, along with site preparation and the creation of temporary infrastructure.
As work enters an active phase, up to 2,500 people and over 200 units of special equipment are expected to be involved. This means the project will be significant not only for the city's energy system but also for employment during the construction period.
Special attention is being paid to the environmental component. The new TPP will use "clean coal" technology with comprehensive flue gas treatment. The planned system is expected to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides, sulfur, and particulate matter.
"For Ust-Kamenogorsk, the issue of environmental load is of particular importance, so relevant solutions are being incorporated directly at the design and construction stage of the plant," the ministry emphasized.
The two projects complement each other. The new power unit at the existing TPP will increase the available thermal and electrical capacity of the current plant, while the new TPP will create a significantly larger additional energy resource.
As a result, Ust-Kamenogorsk will be able to address part of the current thermal capacity deficit and prepare its energy infrastructure for further city growth. The new TPP is scheduled for completion by 2029, and the construction of the new power unit at the existing plant is also expected to boost capacity as part of the overall development of the region's energy system.