Translated with AI
Kyrgyz authorities have suspended the operations of all mining farms in the country until the end of March 2026. The decision was made due to an electricity shortage caused by low water levels and reduced hydroelectric output, 24.kg reports.
Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the State Committee for National Security (GKNB) Kamchybek Tashiev stated that the temporary suspension of mining farms is a necessary measure to stabilize the power grid. He warned that unauthorized activation of equipment will be considered a violation of the law, and violators will be subject to criminal prosecution.
Tashiev emphasized that there are no planned power outages for consumers and urged citizens to use electricity sparingly. "No one will intentionally shut off power. God willing, there should be enough electricity. Nevertheless, let's be careful and save," the Deputy Prime Minister noted. He added that the government expects to get through the winter season without rolling blackouts, despite the low water levels.
The Kyrgyz Ministry of Energy published a video showing National Electric Grid employees sealing mining equipment, completely cutting off power to the installations and preventing their reconnection. Energy Minister Taalaibek Ibraev explained that the measures were taken to conserve water at the Toktogul hydroelectric complex and ensure the stable operation of the power system during the autumn and winter. He estimates that the power system will not be stabilized until spring of next year.
Furthermore, authorities have tightened enforcement of energy conservation measures in government agencies. All departments are required to turn off lights and electrical appliances after 6:00 PM and to stop using air conditioners to heat buildings at night. Kamchybek Tashiev stated that such measures must be strictly monitored by energy specialists.
The Deputy Prime Minister also recalled the current government decree requiring cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs to close no later than 10:00 PM. Violations will result in the sanction of power outages. "I am now officially issuing this order: all celebrations, entertainment events, cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs must close after 10:00 PM. If anyone disobeys, shut off the power," the head of the State Committee for National Security emphasized.
Earlier, President Sadyr Japarov noted that the country's energy sector remains unprofitable and will only achieve profitability by 2027. He abolished the previous "unlimited tariff" policy and called on the population to conserve electricity, emphasizing that every kilowatt-hour consumed requires water from the Toktogul Reservoir. He stated that the reservoir's water level is two billion cubic meters lower than the previous year, forcing the republic to purchase electricity from outside the country.
Experts from the Bishkek Electric Grid Company reported that the implementation of automated lighting systems significantly reduces consumption. Zamirbek Temirbekov, head of the company's production and technical department, noted that the installation of 110 motion sensors in administrative buildings saved 5,500 kilowatt-hours annually. These measures are planned to be expanded to include schools, kindergartens, and hospitals.
Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Education also introduced an energy-saving regime in schools, requiring power outages no later than one hour after the end of classes. However, these restrictions do not apply to utility systems or dormitories. Some Bishkek residents complained that the power was being turned off earlier, leading to the cancellation of classes and extracurricular activities during the second shift. The city administration assured that the educational process was not being curtailed and all classes were being held as scheduled.
