By 2040, Kazakhstan aims to increase oil refining volumes to 39mn tons, achieving a refining depth of 94%, Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov said at the Kazakhstan Energy Week 2025 / XVI Eurasian Forum KAZENERGY.
Speaking at the plenary session themed “New Energy Order: Focus on Middle Powers,” Bektenov outlined the government's long-term plans to modernize the energy sector, attract investment, and renewable expand capacity.
The forum gathered more than 2,500 participants from over 50 countries, including senior officials, representatives of international energy organizations, and leaders of major oil and gas corporations.
During the event, Bektenov delivered a written address from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who emphasized that the country's economic development and technological advancement depend on a strong and secure energy base.
“We are implementing large-scale projects to strengthen Kazakhstan's energy security and independence,” the president stated. “As a responsible middle power, Kazakhstan is committed to building cooperation with international organizations such as the UN, SCO, IAEA, and OPEC.”
Bektenov detailed several major projects under implementation. In the petrochemical industry, Kazakhstan has launched a polypropylene plant with an annual capacity of 500,000 tons, while new projects for polyethylene (1.25mn tons), butadiene, and urea production are being developed. By 2030, six major industrial projects worth over $15bn are expected to be completed.
He added that the Shymkent Refinery is increasing its capacity to 12mn tons per year, and new gas processing plants are under development in Zhanaozen, Kashagan, and Tengiz. Construction of the second line of the Beineu–Bozoi–Shymkent gas pipeline is also underway.
Kazakhstan is jointly implementing renewable energy projects with a total capacity exceeding 4 GW, while three new coal-fired CHP plants with a combined capacity of 1 GW are being commissioned to ensure stable power supply.
The Prime Minister highlighted the growing role of digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) in the energy industry. AI technologies are being applied in geological exploration, production optimization, and data analysis, helping to boost recovery rates and operational efficiency.
Bektenov noted that the newly established Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development, initiated by President Tokayev, will accelerate the integration of advanced technologies across key sectors.
Bektenov also pointed to Kazakhstan's strategic efforts to expand rare earth metals and uranium production and advance plans for the construction of a nuclear power plant, emphasizing that these initiatives are vital for meeting rising energy demand.
“Kazakhstan remains a reliable and predictable partner, open to cooperation in creating high-tech industries with international organizations and businesses,” he said.
International speakers at the forum included OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais, who called for increased investment in oil and gas; IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera, who emphasized renewable energy cooperation among middle powers; and IEF Secretary General Jassim Alshirawi, who highlighted Kazakhstan's role as a bridge between energy regions and invited the country to join the International Energy Forum.
Ahmad Saidmurodzoda of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and Mahmoud Fathallah from the League of Arab States also emphasized the importance of energy security, investment, and the transition to renewables as part of sustainable development strategies.
Kazakhstan's Minister of Energy Yerlan Akkenzhenov briefed participants on efforts to improve the investment climate, modernize infrastructure, and expand the share of renewable energy in the national mix.
