Astana, now known as Nur-Sultan, is the capital city of Kazakhstan. Located in the northern part of the country, it is situated on the banks of the Ishim River in the Akmola region. With a population of approximately 1.2 million people, Nur-Sultan is the second-largest city in Kazakhstan after Almaty.
Historically, Nur-Sultan has been heavily reliant on fossil fuels for its energy needs. Like the rest of Kazakhstan, the city has abundant reserves of oil, natural gas, and coal, which have traditionally played a significant role in powering the city's infrastructure and industries. The energy sector, particularly the extraction and processing of fossil fuels, has been a major contributor to the city's economy.
Currently, it is estimated that around 80% of Nur-Sultan's energy usage comes from fossil fuels. The city's energy mix heavily relies on coal-fired power plants and natural gas, which are used for electricity generation, heating, and transportation. However, there have been efforts to diversify the energy sources and reduce the dependency on fossil fuels.
In recent years, the government of Kazakhstan has recognized the importance of transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. Several factors have contributed to this shift in mindset, including global concerns about climate change, the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and the recognition of the economic potential of renewable energy.
One significant decision that has shaped the current energy situation in Nur-Sultan is the establishment of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC). The AIFC aims to attract investment and promote sustainable development in Kazakhstan, including the renewable energy sector. It has provided a platform for international cooperation and partnerships in the development of clean energy projects.
As part of its plans to reduce dependency on fossil fuels, the government has set renewable energy targets and implemented various initiatives. For instance, the Astana EXPO 2017, an international exhibition held in Nur-Sultan, focused on the theme of "Future Energy." It showcased innovative solutions and technologies for sustainable development, highlighting the importance of renewable energy sources.
The exhibition spurred interest in renewable energy within the city and led to the implementation of several renewable energy projects. Nur-Sultan has seen an increase in the installation of solar panels, particularly in residential areas and public buildings. Additionally, wind farms are being developed in the surrounding regions to harness the strong winds that characterize the area.
The government has also encouraged the use of energy-efficient technologies and practices. Buildings in Nur-Sultan are being constructed with a focus on energy conservation, utilizing insulation and efficient heating systems. Moreover, public awareness campaigns have been launched to educate the population about the benefits of energy conservation and the importance of transitioning to clean energy sources.
Nur-Sultan, the capital city of Kazakhstan, has historically been dependent on fossil fuels for its energy needs. However, the government has recognized the need to reduce this dependency and transition towards clean energy sources. Efforts are being made to diversify the energy mix by promoting renewable energy projects, increasing the installation of solar panels, and developing wind farms. With a population of approximately 1.2 million people, Nur-Sultan is actively working towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future, embracing energy-efficient technologies and practices.