ASTANA – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is providing assistance to Kazakhstan to implement resource-saving technologies and the principles of green economy through technical assistance for project preparation for the rehabilitation of heating networks in Karaganda.
This assistance was provided for in the Country Strategy Partnership between Kazakhstan and the ADB for 2012-2016. This project supports the Comprehensive Plan for Increasing Energy Efficiency of Kazakhstan for 2012-2015, which is consistent with the State Programme of Accelerated Industrial and Innovative Development for 2010-2014 and will contribute to the objectives of the government of Kazakhstan to reduce energy and carbon intensity.
The purpose of the project is to modernise the district heating network of Karaganda, including the renewal of seven pumping stations, replacement of up to 127 kilometres of underground, over ground and transit pipeline networks and the modernisation of control and accounting systems, including the introduction of supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) as well as advanced training in financial management, procurement procedures, social protection, access to financing including carbon financing and trading mechanisms governing greenhouse gases.
The ADB participation in this project is part of the bank’s overall strategy and is aimed at reducing poverty and improving the quality of life and energy efficiency, pollution control and preservation of natural resources. The ADB is experienced in implementing similar projects in the sphere of natural monopolies and urban infrastructure through public private partnerships. Kazakhstan can use this experience in order to attract private investment to this sector, making the utility sphere an attractive investment while providing cost effective energy for the people of the country.
Environmentally friendly technologies and resource preservation measures are also among the priorities of the ADB. The bank pays particular attention to this area and both funds projects in numerous countries and demonstrates by example the use of green technologies.
The upcoming 47th Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors in Astana from May 2-5 will be held using the principles of the green economy. This includes the use of environmentally friendly materials, conducting green activities and reducing the use of various resources. The Palace of Independence – the venue of the meeting, will be equipped with recycling bins while participants will be provided with environmentally friendly conference packs. An exhibition of domestic enterprises and investment opportunities in Kazakhstan and an exhibition of Kazakh art and culture will also be held as part of the event.
Marking the event, ADB President Takehiko Nakao and the Minister of Economy and Budget Planning of Kazakhstan Yerbolat Dossayev will take part in a ceremony involving the planting of 47 trees to commemorate the 47th annual meeting of the bank.
