Eni has significantly expanded its presence in Kazakhstan, balancing its operations in major oil fields such as Kashagan and Karachaganak with a growing commitment to renewable energy, a source at Eni told Trend.
"In Kazakhstan, we are actively involved in the exploration, development, and production of hydrocarbons and natural gas, while also investing in renewable energy with wind and solar power plants. Our renewable energy projects and experimentation with biofuels are part of our broader goal to support the energy transition in Central Asia," the company noted.
The source emphasized that Eni's business model integrates environmental and social sustainability principles, with a clear vision: "We aim to achieve Carbon neutrality by 2050 through our comprehensive energy strategy".
Eni's groundbreaking hybrid power project in collaboration with KazMunayGas (KMG) is a significant milestone in the company’s sustainability strategy.
"In 2024, we began construction on the 250 MW Hybrid Renewables-Gas Power Plant in Zhanaozen, Mangystau Region. This project combines advanced renewable energy plants, developed with Plenitude, Eni’s subsidiary, and a gas power plant to ensure stable electricity production," the source noted.
The company added, "This hybrid approach is fully aligned with Eni's decarbonization strategy, and it demonstrates our joint commitment to pioneering technologies for a low-carbon future in the Mangystau Region".
Eni continues to prioritize renewable energy and carbon reduction in Kazakhstan, with potential for expansion into other Central Asian countries. "We are currently focusing our efforts on Kazakhstan in the renewable energy and carbon reduction space, and we are committed to supporting the country’s transition to a sustainable energy future".
"Eni operates in Kazakhstan’s renewable sector through Arm Wind, our fully owned subsidiary, with a total installed capacity of 150 MW. Notable projects include the 48 MW Badamsha-1 wind farm, the 48 MW Badamsha-2 wind farm, and the 50 MW solar plant in Turkestan," the company elaborated.
The source continued, "In January 2024, we confirmed our commitment to the innovative 250 MW Hybrid Renewables-Gas Project in Zhanaozen. This project will combine solar and wind energy with gas to stabilize electricity production, addressing the challenges of integrating fluctuating renewables into the grid."
"We are now in the construction phase of this project. This project will bring great value to the Grid by producing stable and balanced electricity, especially in consideration of the fluctuating character of renewables’ power generation and the issue of their integration into the grid. We believe that hybrid projects like these could become key solutions for enhancing grid stability and ensuring energy security in Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries," the company added.
At the same time, Eni reiterated its openness to consider cooperation opportunities in the renewables sector in Central Asia, leveraging on the common aspects between the countries.