Updated feasibility papers and cost estimates for Kyrgyzstan’s planned giant hydro investment, the multi-billion-dollar Kambarata-1 hydropower power plant (Kambarata-1 HPP) project, should be prepared by next April or May.

That was the outlook given by World Bank country manager for Kyrgyzstan Hugh Riddell on October 15 as he briefed local media.

The first feasibility study for Kambarata-1 was prepared back in 2014. Project officials have this year referred to an estimated cost of around $4.5bn-5bn—but the World Bank, taking into account the changed situation in the market, is working on a revised projection that it hopes will indicate the mega project, on the Naryn river, is cost-effective.

The main issue in the preparation of the feasibility study is the selection of the right type of dam for Kambarata-1, expected to annually generate more than 5bn kWh of electricity. Its height and suitable construction materials, bearing in mind safety requirements, are to be determined, Riddell said. Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, all three of which will contribute to financing Kambarata-1 HPP and will enjoy its power output, are working on these matters, among others.

Tazabek reported earlier that an arch dam, typical for mountainous regions, would likely be chosen as the best type of dam. The curved shape of an arch dam, resembling a fragment of a dome, which is directed towards the flow of the water, distributes the load on to the slopes of the canyon. M1000 reinforced concrete would be required for its construction.

Kyrgyzstan’s energy ministry has stated that the height of the dam will be 256 metres. 

Swiss company AFRY in September presented various options for the dam.

It is expected that it will take around six and a half years to construct the infrastructure.

Riddell was reported by AKIPress as saying that he hoped the project would be prepared and presented to the World Bank’s board of directors during the current fiscal year of the international financial institution (IFI), which ends on June 30, 2025, or before the end of 2025.

He added that he would like to see the first phase of financing for Kambarata-1 secured this fiscal year. 

The World Bank is the leading, but not sole, financial donor and fund-raiser for the project.

Institutions including Manila-based Asian Development Bank (ADB), Beijing-based Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the OPEC Fund of oil producing states have expressed interest in taking part in the financing of the project, Riddell was reported as saying.

“We hope that the project will be effective and profitable. One percent of the profit from energy will go to the needs of the population,” Riddell was cited as concluding by 24.kg.