AKIPRESS.COM - SMEC has been appointed to conduct consulting services for the environmental and social assessment, planning, and preparation of tender documents for the Kambar-Ata-1 hydropower plant, Water Power Magazine reported.

This 1860MW capacity project is one of the largest hydropower projects in Central Asia. It aims to enhance energy security for the Kyrgyz Republic and Central Asia while supporting regional decarbonization efforts. The Kambar-Ata-1HPPis a joint effort between Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, focusing on harnessing hydroelectric potential and improving regional energy infrastructure.

SMEC’s role includes conducting a comprehensive environmental and social assessment and planning for all project activities and related facilities, adhering to the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) and relevant national standards.

The project’s estimated cost is approximately $5.5 billion, supported by the World Bank. Kambar-Ata-1 represents a crucial step towards achieving a green and accessible energy future for the region.