Bishkek, Nov. 11, 2026 /Kabar/. The international industry publication *POWER Magazine* has highlighted the large-scale modernization of the Toktogul Hydropower Plant (HPP) in Kyrgyzstan, which generates approximately 40% of the country’s electricity.
Following reconstruction and extensive modernization, the plant’s capacity increased from 1,200 MW to 1,440 MW. The work was carried out in stages, without requiring a complete shutdown of the facility.
The project was financed with the participation of the Eurasian Fund for Stabilization and Development (EFSD) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Commissioned in 1975, the Toktogul HPP serves as a cornerstone of Kyrgyzstan’s energy system. By the time modernization began, its four generating units had been in operation for nearly half a century without a comprehensive overhaul. Following the reconstruction, executed by GE Vernova the plant’s total capacity rose from 1,200 MW to 1,440 MW, effectively adding roughly 6% to the nation’s total power capacity.
According to the contractor, the reconstruction has ensured that the plant can remain operational for at least another three decades. Experts describe the modernization process, completed without a full plant shutdown as unique.
The experience gained here could be applied to the technical upgrading, reliability enhancement, and performance improvement of other hydropower plants that cannot be taken offline for major overhauls.
