Central Asia can balance the competing goals of energy security, affordability, and environmental protection by adopting a pragmatic “middle path” strategy, according to the authors of the newly released report. This approach avoids radical shifts in favor of simultaneously modernizing old power plants while gradually integrating new renewable sources and digital management tools.
The study states that the proposed strategy “is based on a pragmatic combination of modernizing traditional generation, phased development of RE sources, introduction of energy storage systems and digitalization.” Furthermore, it argues that “this approach will enable Central Asian countries to ensure reliable and affordable energy supplies, reduce their carbon footprint, strengthen energy security, and lay the foundation for sustainable economic growth.”
In simpler terms, the region aims to avoid two risky extremes: trying to switch to green energy too quickly or sticking stubbornly to old, polluting coal plants. Instead, the strategy involves fixing up existing facilities to keep electricity reliable and cheap today, while steadily building wind and solar parks to lower emissions for tomorrow. By using smart technologies and sharing resources across borders, these countries can manage their energy more effectively and prepare for a cleaner future without causing economic shocks.
The report “Power Sector of Central Asia: Modernization and Energy Transition” was published by the Eurasian Development Bank in Almaty in 2026. Authored by a team led by Evgeny Vinokurov, it explores the region’s energy challenges through the lens of the energy trilemma. The study proposes a pragmatic “middle path” to balance energy security, affordability, and sustainability amid a rapidly growing demand and aging infrastructure.
