Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, during a working trip to the Pavlodar Region, inspected the implementation of the President’s instructions on the Data Center Valley project based on the Ekibastuz energy hub.
To establish a special zone for hosting computing infrastructure, cloud services, and AI capacities, a land plot of 200 hectares has been allocated near Ekibastuz GRES-1, with the possibility of expanding the territory to more than 1,300 hectares in the future.
“By the President’s instruction, we are launching a large-scale infrastructure project—the Data Center Valley. This will provide a strong impetus for the development of the high-tech sector of the economy. All government bodies and responsible organizations must work with maximum dedication and efficiency to deliver results,” Olzhas Bektenov emphasized.
The Prime Minister was presented with the design concept of the Data Center Valley. Progress reports were delivered by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry Zhaslan Madiyev, Akim of Pavlodar Region Asain Baikhanov, and Chairman of the Board of Kazakhtelecom Bagdat Mussin.
The Data Center Valley ecosystem will be created on the basis of the power capacities of the Ekibastuz energy hub. The concept предусматривает phased development of the facility with clearly defined parameters for capacity commissioning and the use of existing power infrastructure. The project includes the construction of 15 km of power transmission lines and step-down substation infrastructure with a capacity of 300 MW, expandable to 1 GW in the future. The project provides for the creation of 500 new high-skilled jobs in energy, operation of computing capacities, artificial intelligence, and related fields. Accordingly, emphasis is placed on training highly qualified IT specialists.
Special attention is given to creating favorable conditions for investors, including infrastructure, tariff formation, and tax incentives based on special economic zone principles. The projected investment volume for the project is about $30 billion. Negotiations with major international companies are currently underway.
The Prime Minister noted the strategic importance of the Data Center Valley in the context of Kazakhstan’s digital economy development. The Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry, the Ministry of Energy, the Pavlodar Region akimat, together with Kazakhtelecom, were instructed to ensure all necessary conditions and infrastructure for accelerated project implementation.
“This is the industry of the future. It is important to leverage our competitive advantages. All prerequisites for the project are in place—electricity, climate, and the Trans-Caspian cable. Therefore, submit all decisions that need to be made and move forward without unnecessary bureaucracy. I will personally oversee this project. We must complete this entire path as quickly as possible and proceed to operations, signing contracts and supplying capacities to global companies,” Olzhas Bektenov emphasized.
Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, during a working trip to the Pavlodar Region, inspected the implementation of the President’s instructions aimed at strengthening energy security, developing coal-fired generation, and commissioning new capacities to meet the growing needs of the economy and the population. Special attention was paid to the reliability of life-support facilities and the introduction of digital solutions in the energy and coal-mining sectors.
As part of the trip, Olzhas Bektenov familiarized himself with the development of the region’s energy infrastructure. Pavlodar Region is a flagship in electricity production and development. In 2025, the region generated 42% of the national electricity output. Using the example of a number of energy facilities in Ekibastuz—specifically Ekibastuz GRES-1, Ekibastuz GRES-2, and the coal mine of Bogatyr Komir—current performance indicators and prospects for further development of the energy complex were reviewed.
At the site of the country’s largest solid-fuel power plant, Ekibastuz GRES-1 named after Bolat Nurzhanov, the Prime Minister was briefed on the progress of modernization. The ongoing reconstruction of the fuel supply system and the construction of a new smokestack with subsequent dismantling of the old one are among the key elements for improving the reliability of energy supply in the region.
Projects for the development of generation and grid infrastructure in the region were also presented, including the reconstruction of power unit No. 7 at Aksu GRES with a capacity of 325 MW, the modernization of individual energy sources, as well as the elaboration of new projects based on modern technologies and the development of alternative energy.
According to Energy Minister Erlan Akkenzhenov, Kazakhstan plans to commission about 2.6 GW of new capacity this year, including gas projects totaling 2,427.6 MW and renewable energy projects totaling 245.8 MW. In total, 13 projects will be implemented, including the Tekeli energy complex, the Atyrau CHP plant, combined-cycle gas turbine units in Turkestan Region and the city of Almaty, among others.
Akim of Pavlodar Region Asain Baikhanov reported on the progress of the 2025–2026 heating season. At energy facilities, repairs were carried out on 46 units of major equipment, and 37.1 km of heating networks were modernized, which made it possible to ensure the normal operation of heat supply systems and reduce the level of wear by 1.5%.
At the construction site of Ekibastuz GRES-2, the Prime Minister reviewed the progress of the station’s expansion and reconstruction project. At present, the installed capacity is 1 GW. The construction of power units No. 3 and No. 4 will increase the station’s electric capacity to 2.1 GW. Chairman of the Management Board of Samruk-Energy, Kairat Maksutov, reported that commissioning is scheduled for September 2028 (power unit No. 3) and September 2030 (power unit No. 4), respectively. The total investment volume for the expansion project exceeds 1.2 trillion tenge.
Regarding the GRES-3 construction project, it was noted that the creation of new coal-fired generation with a total capacity of 2.64 GW is planned, based on “clean coal” technology with phased commissioning of capacities.
“At the National Kurultai, the Head of State emphasized that issues of energy self-sufficiency must be considered an important part of state policy. The launch of additional power units at GRES-2 and the start of construction of GRES-3 are a signal for the entire economy. We are gradually moving toward eliminating the energy deficit and providing the necessary power capacities for both our businesses and investors,” Olzhas Bektenov noted.
The Prime Minister also familiarized himself with the process of open-pit coal mining at the Bogatyr Komir mine—one of the largest open pits in the world, with an area of more than 43 km² and a depth exceeding 300 meters. The enterprise operates two open pits—“Bogatyr” and “Severny.” At present, the implementation of the stage of automation of production processes is almost complete. The next stage of development in this direction is the application of artificial intelligence capabilities. Within this framework, two AI-enabled projects are planned: “Freight Flow Optimizer” and “Mining Operations Planning.”
Today, Bogatyr Komir is one of the leading coal-mining assets in the country, accounting for 38% of Kazakhstan’s total coal production. Reserves are estimated at more than 2.3 billion tons, ensuring long-term supply stability. Chief Executive Officer Evgeny Masternak informed about plans to increase production volumes. Currently, the total production capacity of the Bogatyr and Severny open pits is 42 million tons of coal per year. The target for 2026 is 45.2 million tons, and by 2032 it is planned to reach 56.5 million tons. It was noted that over the next seven years, approximately 360 billion tenge will be invested in new construction, equipment procurement, reconstruction, modernization, and repairs.
The Prime Minister was also informed about digital solutions already implemented at the enterprise, including the Blast Maker software and hardware complex for designing drilling and blasting operations, automated dispatch control systems, electricity metering systems, and driver vigilance monitoring systems for mining dump trucks.
A number of innovations are also planned for implementation in the period 2026–2030:
the freight flow optimization module will contribute to prompt coal shipment and reduce idle time of railcars and equipment;
the locomotive driver vigilance monitoring system is aimed at increasing safety and reducing the risk of incidents caused by the human factor;
the “Autonomous Loading” solution will ensure remote control of the blending and loading machine;
the MES system for auxiliary equipment will make it possible to see equipment operation and plan fulfillment in real time, simplifying production control and management.
In accordance with the President’s instructions on using the country’s coal potential as a strategic resource, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of introducing modern technologies and enhancing industrial safety. The Head of State also set the task of granting the development of coal-fired generation the status of a national project. According to the Ministry of Energy, work in this direction is already underway. The project will include about 7.6 GW of coal-fired generation, with priority given to modern solutions based on “clean coal” technology and compliance with environmental legislation. To cover growing consumption, about 2.6 GW of capacity is planned to be commissioned in 2026, and about 1 GW in 2027. Thus, by the end of the first quarter of next year, full coverage of the economy’s electricity needs is expected, and by the end of the year, a surplus of about 1.3 billion kWh will be ensured.
Following the visit to the energy facilities in Ekibastuz, the Prime Minister instructed that the modernization of Ekibastuz GRES-1 be completed within the established сроки, the construction and timely commissioning of power units No. 3 and No. 4 at Ekibastuz GRES-2 be ensured, and assistance be provided in the implementation of the investment plans of Bogatyr Komir.
Kairat Maxutov, Chairman of the Management Board of Samruk-Energy JSC, held a meeting to review the Company’s performance in the field of occupational health and safety for 2025.
According to the year-end results, the number of work-related accidents across the Samruk-Energy Group decreased by half compared to 2024. This positive trend reflects the effectiveness of the measures implemented and the Company’s systematic approach to ensuring workplace safety.
A report on implemented initiatives, production control outcomes, and the effectiveness of management decisions was presented by Duisenbek Shardarbakov, Director of the Occupational Health Department. During the reporting period, particular focus was placed on the deployment of advanced technologies, including AI-powered video analytics systems, employee health protection initiatives, professional risk assessment, and the development of digital solutions in the areas of occupational health and industrial safety.
A unified corporate standard for special workwear and personal protective equipment has been approved across the Group. As part of production control activities, workplace inspections and site walkthroughs were conducted, with the majority of identified non-compliances eliminated within the established timeframes.
Following the meeting, priority objectives for 2026 were defined, including achieving zero workplace injuries, further expanding digital safety tools, and strengthening a culture of personal accountability at all management levels.
Kairat Maxutov emphasized that employee safety remains the Company’s top priority, noting that sustainable reductions in injury rates can only be achieved through a systematic approach, strong leadership engagement, and the conscious, responsible behavior of every employee.
Based on the results of the 2025 survey of administrative and managerial staff, the Group-wide index for Samruk-Energy JSC reached 59%, representing an increase of 13 percentage points compared to the previous year.
Overall, the 2025 engagement results indicate a strengthening of employee engagement and provide a solid foundation for the further development of wellbeing programs and improvements in the Group’s operational effectiveness.
The survey is conducted on a regular basis and covers the following four dimensions:
Physical and mental wellbeing
Social wellbeing
Financial wellbeing
Engagement
The wellbeing survey of administrative and managerial staff is a systematic assessment of how employees perceive their level of comfort, resilience, and engagement in both their professional and personal lives within the context of their work at the Company.
Samruk-Energy Group of companies has been consistently implementing initiatives aimed at improving energy efficiency and promoting sustainable development.
Energy efficiency
According to operational data, in 2025, 65 measures were implemented, resulting in savings of over 207 thousand tons of standard fuel and a financial impact exceeding KZT 2 billion, surpassing the planned target of KZT 1.5 billion.
Efficiency improvementproposals
In 2025, 31 efficiency improvement proposals were approved, generating a total economic effect of KZT 466.4 million. Dmitry Martynenko, an employee of Ekibastuz SDPP-2, was the winner in the “Best Innovator – 2025” category of the “Best Innovative Company – 2025” competition organized by Samruk-Kazyna JSC.
Best Available Technologies (BAT)
Roadmaps for the implementation of BAT have been developed and approved at Ekibastuz SDPP-1, Ekibastuz SDPP-2, and enterprises of Almaty Power Plants JSC, forming the foundation for improving the environmental efficiency of energy facilities.
The implementation of these initiatives demonstrates Samruk-Energy JSC’s commitment to the principles of energy efficiency, innovative development, and environmental responsibility.
Samruk-Energy JSC increased the volume of offtake contracts with local manufacturers by 2.5 times. In 2025, the group of companies signed 26 offtake contracts worth a total of 25.8 billion tenge. In 2024, 41 offtake contracts worth 10.2 billion tenge were signed.
The share of local content in procurement also increased. In 2025, contracts were signed for the supply of goods worth approximately 200 billion tenge, with a domestic content share of approximately 80%.
Samruk-Energy JSC continues to support domestic production and strengthen partnerships with local suppliers.
Occupational health and safety, industrial safety, and the improvement of employees’ working and living conditions remain key priorities for Samruk-Energy Group.
In this regard, in 2025, expenditures on occupational health and safety increased by 40%, while both the headcount of safety personnel and their salary levels were raised. As a result of these comprehensive measures, the number of workplace accidents decreased by more than twofold compared to 2024.
At the same time, large-scale efforts to improve working conditions for operational staff continue. Renovation works have been carried out at almost all power plants, including upgrades to sanitary facilities, showers, staff amenities, and other workplace infrastructure. At several power plants, free meals have been introduced for operational personnel.
In addition to improving working conditions, the Company places strong emphasis on the financial well-being of its workforce. Over the past three years, wages of operational employees across the Samruk-Energy Group have increased by 56%, while the range of social benefits and incentive payments has been significantly expanded.
As a result, Samruk-Energy is systematically strengthening its social environment by ensuring safe, comfortable, and stable working conditions for its employees.
Samruk-Energy JSC continues to consistently implement ESG programs aimed at promoting sustainable development. Sustainable Fitch has reaffirmed Samruk-Energy’s ESG rating at a positive level, positioning the Company among international energy companies with comparable business profiles.
In addition, Samruk-Energy’s Integrated Annual Report ranked first for ESG disclosure in the PwC Kazakhstan rating. For the second consecutive year, the Company received the highest rating of “A+”, reflecting compliance with leading international standards. Samruk-Energy was recognized as a leader among 98 Kazakhstani companies, not only in the overall ranking but also across several key ESG disclosure categories.
Samruk-Energy’s Integrated Annual Report was also awarded a Gold Award at the MarCom Awards, a prestigious international competition organized by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP). The Company received the gold statuette in the category Publications | Annual Report | Government.
Furthermore, Samruk-Energy earned a five-star rating and the status of “Highest Quality Annual Report” in the RAEX annual report ranking. The Company’s annual report was recognized as one of the best among more than 300 participants.
These awards confirm Samruk-Energy’s high standards of transparency, strong corporate governance practices, and firm commitment to sustainable development principles, as well as the Company’s alignment with international ESG best practices.
Chairman of the Management Board of Samruk-Energy JSC, Kairat Maxutov, and the Mayor of Pavlodar region Asain Baikhanov visited the Ekibastuz energy hub, where they reviewed the implementation of investment projects and signed a Memorandum of Cooperation.
During the visit, Kairat Maxutov and Asain Baikhanov discussed the progress of the autumn–winter operating period and preparations for the upcoming maintenance campaign. They were also briefed on the current status of key investment projects and considered long-term development priorities, including the modernization of Power Unit No. 3 and the digitalization of power units at Ekibastuz SDPP-1.
The head of Samruk-Energy and the regional Akim (mayor) visited the construction site of Ekibastuz SDPP-1, where they reviewed progress on the construction of a new smokestack. Excavation works and drilling of the main piles have been completed, and foundation works for the smokestack are currently underway.
The Chairman of the Management Board of Samruk-Energy also visited Ekibastuz SDPP-2, where he reviewed the implementation of the project to expand and modernize the power plant, including the installation of Power Unit No. 3.
Following the visit, Kairat Maxutov and Asain Baikhanov signed a Memorandum of Cooperation focused on the development of the region’s social infrastructure and the implementation of affordable housing initiatives.
As part of its corporate social responsibility commitments, Samruk-Energy JSC plans to develop a range of social facilities in Ekibastuz, including the construction of a multi-apartment residential building for employees of the Group, two kindergartens, a sports complex, and a modular administrative and amenity facility at the Ekibastuz CHP plant. The total investment in these projects is estimated at approximately KZT 20 billion.
In addition, the Company intends to allocate KZT 100 million annually to urban greening initiatives aimed at improving the city’s environmental conditions.
Samruk-Energy’s social initiatives are designed to enhance the quality of life of power plant employees, support young families, strengthen urban and social infrastructure, and build long-term human capital in the region.
Samruk-Energy JSC has successfully completed a certification audit confirming its compliance with international management system standards, thereby demonstrating a high level of corporate governance and a strong commitment to the principles of sustainable development.
A key outcome of the audit was the award of the ISO 37301:2021 certification for the Compliance Management System. Samruk-Energy JSC has become one of the companies to implement and certify a compliance management system in accordance with this international standard.
The ISO 37301 certification confirms the maturity of the Company’s corporate governance framework, its adherence to high standards of business ethics, and the transparency of its operations.
During the Year of skilled trades, Samruk-Energy demonstrated a strong commitment to its workforce and successfully delivered a comprehensive program aimed at advancing and supporting skilled blue-collar employees across the Group:
The Social Stability Index (SRS) across Samruk-Energy group reached 77%, representing an 8% increase from 2024. A new collective bargaining agreement for 2025–2027 has been signed, expanding social benefits and improving working conditions.
Wages for production employees were raised: an 8% increase in 2025, with a planned 10% increase in 2026. Living and workplace conditions for production staff have been significantly enhanced to ensure safety and comfort. Samruk-Energy won the HR Brand 2025 award in the “Architect of talent” category among Samruk-Kazyna group portfolio companies. More than 20 professional skill competitions were held across subsidiaries (including “Best Engineer,” “Best Mentor,” “Yenbek batyry” “Uzdik maman” and others). Around 100 career guidance and outreach activities were organized for school and university students. Approximately 600 students completed industrial internships or pre-graduation practical trainingsat Samruk-Energy facilities. Among them, four AUPET students were supported by Samruk-Energy to undertake internships at the University of Genoa (Italy). • As part of the Samruk Umiti initiative, a career guidance program was implemented along with long-term mentorship support for four children from the Ridder orphanage. Young employees of Ust-Kamenogorsk HPP will provide continuous professional and personal mentorship. • Within the Talimger program, eight orphaned graduates of technical colleges were employed at Samruk-Energy enterprises. • Around 800 employees were recognized with state, departmental, and corporate honors for their contributions and achievements.
Samruk-Energy will continue implementing initiatives that strengthen the prestige of skilled trades, ensure social stability, and improve working environments across the Group.
