Electricity demand across Central Asia is projected to surge by approximately 40% by 2030, rising from current levels to an estimated 370 billion kilowatt-hours annually. This rapid expansion is being driven by steady economic growth and a population exceeding 80 million, according to the authors of the newly released report.
The report states that “by 2030, consumption could grow by another 40% or so — from the current 270 billion to 370 billion kWh per year.” It further notes that “the region, with a population of over 80 million, is showing steady growth in electricity demand of 3–6% per year.”
This means that in just a few short years, the region will need significantly more power to keep the lights on and support its expanding industries. To put it simply, the amount of electricity needed every year is expected to jump by nearly half because more people are moving to cities, factories are producing more goods, and new technologies like electric vehicles are becoming common. This creates a massive challenge for energy systems that were built decades ago and are already struggling to keep up with current needs.
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.
