ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 17. Kazakhstan and
Italy are set to launch a hybrid power plant in the city of
Zhanaozen by the end of the year, Trend reports via the Kazakh Ministry of Energy.


This initiative was discussed during a meeting between
Kazakhstan's Minister of Energy, Yerlan Akkenzhenov, and Italy’s
Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Antonello De Riu.


The project, a collaborative effort with Eni, involves the
construction of a 247 MW hybrid power plant that integrates solar,
wind, and flexible gas generation. Initial progress has already
been made, with the launch of a solar facility in September 2025.
Equipped with 80,000 panels, the facility has commenced the
production of clean electricity. The gas and wind components are
slated for completion by the end of 2026, which will ensure
comprehensive energy security for oil and gas facilities in the
Mangystau region, including OzenMunayGas and KazGPZ.


During the talks, both parties reviewed the progress of joint
initiatives previously agreed upon at the heads of state level and
identified new priorities for future cooperation. Minister
Akkenzhenov emphasized that Italy remains a dependable partner for
Kazakhstan, with bilateral dialogue increasingly leading to
tangible industrial projects.


A key focus was placed on expanding the resource base. In
January 2026, QazaqGaz and Eni moved forward into the practical
phase of exploring the Kamensky block in the Caspian basin, while
exploration continues at the South Shu-Sarysu and Bereke sites.







Alongside cooperation at Kashagan oil field and Karachaganak
field, the parties are also advancing the development of a
petrochemical cluster. Within the polyethylene project, a
consortium led by Maire Tecnimont has already begun construction
and installation works at the polymerization unit and gas
separation complex.


In the traditional power sector, strategic collaboration with
Ansaldo Energia has facilitated the installation of advanced gas
turbines at the Almaty CHPP-3, with the equipment having been
delivered to the site in January of this year.


The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their
commitment to further strengthening the integration of Italian
companies into Kazakhstan’s energy development initiatives, to
enhance the reliability and sustainability of the national energy
system.