KEGOC to link western Kazakhstan with unified power grid by 2027
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
Kazakhstan's grid operator KEGOC is building a 500 kV power line from Ulke to Karabatan to integrate the western zone with the national grid for the first time. The project, in active construction, will transmit up to 500 MW and includes a new substation at Karabatan. Completion is expected by 2027.
Project Scope
The 500 kV line Ulke–Karabatan is part of KEGOC's effort to connect the western regions to the Unified Power System of Kazakhstan. A previous line Zhitikara–Ulke already linked Aktobe region. The new line will add 500 MW capacity and strengthen grid stability. Construction includes a new 500 kV substation Karabatan and expansion of the Ulke substation.
Construction Progress
As of June 2026, KEGOC has delivered 4,731 foundations for transmission towers, with 4,156 installed. Of 775 metal towers supplied, 619 have been erected. High-voltage equipment, including SF6 circuit breakers, disconnectors, autotransformers, and reactors, has been delivered to both substations. Some equipment is manufactured in Kazakhstan.
Regional Impact
KEGOC notes that Karabatan is emerging as a new industrial hub, with connection requests from future enterprises, energy facilities, and SEZ residents. The project is expected to improve power supply reliability in western Kazakhstan and support economic development. It is one of the largest infrastructure projects in the country's power sector.
Aging Generation Fleet and Crisis
The transcript reveals that Kazakhstan's power generation fleet has an average age exceeding 55 years, posing a risk of large-scale accidents. It also describes a prolonged structural crisis in the energy system, exacerbated by ineffective planning from the ministry.
What's Next
KEGOC aims to complete the line and substations by 2027. It remains unclear how the project will affect electricity tariffs or attract industrial investment in the region.
4 sources
KEGOC to link western Kazakhstan with unified power grid by 2027
