The Kyrgyzstan parliament has approved the Keming Barekhi 500 kV high-voltage transmission line and substation project on first reading. This power artery with a total investment of 67.7 million euros, provided with a loan of 61.7 million euros and a grant of 6 million euros by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, aims to eliminate grid overload, support solar and wind power generation, and be included in the 2026 energy plan. For Kyrgyzstan, where hydropower accounts for 95% of power generation, this line is not only a crucial step in upgrading the power grid, but also a strategic channel connecting the CASA-1000 regional power export project and achieving power exports to Pakistan and Afghanistan as early as the summer of 2027.

Five million volt line approved

The Kyrgyz parliament recently approved the Keming Barerki 500 kV high-voltage transmission line and substation project, with a total investment of 67.7 million euros, of which 61.7 million euros are provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development with a loan term of 20 years and a grace period of 5 years, and another 6 million euros are grants. The project aims to eliminate grid overload, support solar and wind power generation, and be included in the 2026 energy plan. We are currently completing internal procedures, identifying contractors, and initiating design work, which is expected to be an important milestone for Kyrgyzstan's energy infrastructure.

Upgrading the power grid helps with exports

Hydroelectric power accounts for 95% of electricity generation in Kyrgyzstan, but the aging of the power grid limits the development and export potential of new energy. This line will optimize power distribution, support the construction of new energy power stations in the Issyk Kul region, and connect with the CASA-1000 regional power export project. It is expected that Kyrgyzstan will achieve electricity exports to Pakistan and Afghanistan as early as the summer of 2027, opening up new channels for the country's energy exports. Previously, similar projects such as the Datka Kemin line have been built by Chinese companies, helping Kyrgyzstan achieve grid independence and save transit fees annually, demonstrating the mature experience of Chinese investment in energy infrastructure in Kyrgyzstan. Keywords: Infrastructure Engineering News Network, Power Grid Upgrade

The window of opportunity for Chinese enterprises has opened

As the 2026 plan progresses, the project will enter the bidding and implementation phase. The construction of transmission lines and substations requires a large number of contractors and equipment suppliers, and Chinese enterprises can seize the opportunity with their technological and financial advantages. Dongfang Electric Group has participated in the Kambalata-2 hydropower project with a contract exceeding 30 million US dollars. The construction of this line may involve more equipment supply and engineering contracting. However, EBRD financing involves international standards such as environmental protection and social issues, and companies need to understand and adjust their compliance strategies in advance. It is recommended that Chinese enterprises pay attention to project bidding dynamics, evaluate supply chain opportunities, establish local relationship networks, and plan long-term participation in the energy export field of Kyrgyzstan in conjunction with the CASA-1000 project.Editor/Gao Xue