In 2021, USAID established a foundation for a meaningful partnership with Samruk Energy, Kazakhstan’s largest energy company, helping pave the way for the country to position itself as a green champion in Central Asia. Kazakhstan has a goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2060. Despite its heavy reliance on coal in generating electricity and heat, Samruk Energy also recently announced a goal to reach carbon neutrality by 2060, mirroring the national target.
Understanding how to navigate sustainable practices best differs from the challenges one faces on a trail. Just as a hiker must assess the terrain, make informed decisions, and adapt to changing conditions, so do companies need to select and implement the best sustainable practices for their work.
Merey Adilbekuly (33) heads the Production Efficiency Department at Samruk Energy. This April, Merey and his team turned to the expertise of USAID’s Power Central Asia (PCA) team to craft a comprehensive training program tailored to the company’s specific needs on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. The training showcased global best practices and lessons from successful sustainability initiatives worldwide. It also helped build on the company’s strategy and program, launched in 2022, to transition to low-carbon development.
Born and raised in Almaty, Kazakhstan, with its vast mountains, meandering rivers, and untouched wilderness, Merey always understood that these places are not only sources of inspiration and adventure but also vital ecosystems that support life as we know it. Having already obtained two higher education degrees in Sustainable Energy and Environment – through the international Bolashaq (The Future) stipend offered by the Government of Kazakhstan to its exceptional youth – he continues to enrich his education.