Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan Agree on Regional Water-Energy Balance

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — In Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan, the results of a trilateral meeting of representatives from the energy and water management authorities of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan led to the signing of protocols regulating the region’s water-energy balance. The Uzbek delegation was headed by Minister of Energy Jurabek Mirzamahmudov.

The main document formalizes the parties’ commitments to ensure water releases from the Toktogul Reservoir in exchange for electricity supplies from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to Kyrgyzstan.

Additionally, conditions were agreed for the transit of electricity from Russia through Kazakhstan’s energy system to Kyrgyzstan. These measures aim to maintain optimal water levels in the reservoir and provide irrigation water to southern regions of Kazakhstan during the upcoming growing season.

During the visit, bilateral negotiations also took place. From Uzbekistan, a protocol was signed for electricity supplies to Kazakhstan amounting to approximately 900 million kWh from March to December 2026. This volume is intended to cover projected deficits in Kazakhstan’s southern energy zone during scheduled power plant maintenance.

“Work in the water-energy sector requires high precision and strict adherence to schedules. The signed protocols are working documents with specific figures, deadlines, and prices,” noted Minister Erlan Akkenzhenov. “We have established technical delivery conditions and resolved current issues. Kazakhstan fulfills its obligations and expects a similar approach from its partners. This is the foundation for the stability of the energy system and water supply across the region.”

The agreements reached reduce risks for the upcoming autumn-winter period and create predictable conditions for water accumulation ahead of the next growing season, which is crucial for the agricultural sector in southern Kazakhstan.