Construction of Almaty CHP-3 is 9 months behind schedule: what went wrong
Tengrinews.kz — The construction of Almaty's CHP-3 plant has fallen behind schedule due to the discovery of groundwater following the demolition of old structures, as well as the need to relocate a major substation. Completion dates have shifted by approximately 8–9 months, Ansar Aidarov, Chairman of the Board of Samruk-Energy, told reporters on the sidelines of a government meeting.
According to Aidarov, groundwater was discovered at depths of 4 to 12 meters during construction. It was previously impossible to conduct a detailed survey as the site was occupied by existing facilities.
Due to the region's high seismic activity, designers had to develop special technical specifications and conduct pile testing for the foundation. Foundation pouring began only after these tests were completed.
"This is the first reason for the delay, which has impacted the schedule by about 8–9 months. We must build a reliable plant to ensure its safety in the future," said the head of Samruk-Energy.
The second reason involves an intersystem substation located on the CHP-3 site, which handles power transit to Kyrgyzstan and Almaty. The substation must be dismantled and its lines relocated to a new facility. According to Ansar Aidarov, such work can only be performed during the off-season when energy consumption is lower. Due to the geological delays, this window was missed.
"We are currently working with KEGOC and the Ministry of Energy to develop a plan to carry out this work during the winter. It is crucial that this does not affect Almaty. There are six lines involved," the chairman noted.
Aidarov added that the equipment has already been delivered, and no further disruptions are expected.
CHP-3 construction faces delays
In January, Energy Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov stated that the primary reason for the CHP-3 delay was poor organization by the general contractor. The project was subsequently placed under special ministerial oversight, requiring weekly progress reports.
Akkenzhenov later reported that the construction of CHP-3 is slated for completion by the end of 2027. The government also stated that the former head of Samruk-Energy, Kairat Maksutov, had received warnings regarding project implementation timelines.