Dear readers,

On 27 September 2024, the Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan approved the Hydrogen Energy Development Concept until 2030 (Order No. 342). Kazakhstan's energy structure is undergoing a transformation aimed at reducing carbon emissions and implementing new technologies. In this transformation, hydrogen energy could play a central role, offering both environmental and economic benefits for the country.

The development of hydrogen energy in Kazakhstan aims to reduce carbon emissions and create new opportunities for the economy. It includes improving the legal framework, implementing hydrogen blending technologies in combined-cycle gas turbine plants, developing infrastructure for hydrogen transportation and storage, as well as attracting investments and international cooperation. Pilot projects will facilitate the use of hydrogen in various sectors, including transportation, industry, and energy.

Key Principles and Approaches for Development:

The principles for the development of hydrogen energy include sustainability, innovation, integration with renewable energy sources, infrastructure development, and partnerships with international players. Kazakhstan will stimulate the adoption of new technologies, establish the necessary legal framework, and train specialists to effectively implement hydrogen projects.

Implementing these principles will strengthen Kazakhstan's position in the global energy sector, reduce carbon emissions, and create innovative solutions for the future energy transition.

The Hydrogen Energy Development Concept of Kazakhstan includes ambitious target indicators aimed at accelerating the industry’s growth by 2030. Key objectives include:

  1. Hydrogen Production: By 2030, the hydrogen production is expected to reach 25,000 tons, with at least 50% being green hydrogen. This includes achieving 10,000 tons by 2027 and 18,000 tons by 2029.
  2. Infrastructure Development: Plans include constructing hydrogen storage facilities with a total capacity of 100,000 m³, launching a network of hydrogen refueling stations, and developing hydrogen pipelines approximately 100 km long by 2030
  3. CO2 Emissions Reduction: As part of the carbon neutrality goal, a reduction in the share of fossil fuels by 0.03-0.04%, a 0.1% decrease in CO2 emissions, and achieving a hydrogen share in the country’s energy system of 0.25% by 2030 are anticipated
  4. Hydrogen Export: Kazakhstan aims to increase hydrogen exports, reaching 5,000 tons per year by 2028, expanding to 10,000 tons by 2029, and 15,000 tons by 2030.
  5. Investment Attraction: The hydrogen industry will be supported by government measures, aiming to attract 1 billion tenge by 2030, implement international hydrogen projects, and sign 5 agreements in the hydrogen energy sector.
  6. Hydrogen Transport: The implementation of hydrogen buses in three cities and the development of hydrogen refueling infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted service for transport by 2030.

The implementation of this Concept will enable Kazakhstan to strengthen its position in the global energy market and will be a significant step toward achieving carbon neutrality.

Hydrogen energy plays a key role in Kazakhstan's strategy for transitioning to a green economy and sustainable development.

For a more detailed review of the Draft text and its implications, please follow the link (Приказ Министра энергетики Республики Казахстан от 27 сентября 2024 года № 342 «Об утверждении Концепции развития водородной энергетики в Республике Казахстан до 2030 года»).