Power International Holding Affirms Support for Kazakhstan’s Sustainable Energy Transition
During the Astana International Forum – 2025, Mr. Amer Mahasen, Chairman and Country Managing Director PIHKazakhstan, delivered a keynote speech in which he reaffirmed the company’s commitment to long-term investment partnerships with Kazakhstan and announced a portfolio of strategic infrastructure and energy projects, El.kz reports.
Power International Holding, a diversified Qatari conglomerate operating in over 19 countries, is strengthening its role in Kazakhstan by supporting initiatives in clean energy, smart infrastructure, and sustainable urban development. Speaking at the session titled “Enhancing Energy Connectivity for a Resilient and Sustainable Kazakhstan Energy System”, Mr. Mahasen outlined the company’s investment strategy and presented specific projects that will be implemented in partnership with national stakeholders.
“Our entry into the Kazakhstani market is not just a geographical expansion. It reflects our strong confidence in the country’s potential and our commitment to creating long-term value — through investments in infrastructure, people, and a sustainable future. We are proud to be part of the effort to strengthen regional energy connectivity,”
– stated Mr. Amer Mahasen.
Among the announced initiatives is the construction of a 1,100 MW combined-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plantin the Kyzylorda region, in partnership with Samruk-Energy. PIH also collaborates with QazaqGaz and the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan on several critical infrastructure projects, including:
In addition to energy, PIH is expanding into the telecommunications sector. Through the acquisition of Altel and Tele2 Kazakhstan, the company aims to modernize digital infrastructure and ensure broader access to digital connectivity nationwide.
PIH also expressed interest in investing in mining, agriculture, and healthcare — sectors that align with Kazakhstan’s national development priorities and offer long-term growth potential.
Dear ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and fellows,
It is an honor to join you today as the Country Managing Director of Power International Holding for Kazakhstan, and to represent our group—a diversified Qatari enterprise with a presence in over 19 countries.
By pursuing the vision of PIH, we invest heavily across a wide range of sectors, including energy, infrastructure, real estate, healthcare, hospitality, telecommunications, and services. Our entry into Kazakhstan marks more than a geographic expansion—it reflects our confidence in the prosperity we see, the potential we believe in, and our commitment to building long-term partnerships in a country full of opportunities.
We are guided by a clear principle: to create lasting value. This means investing not only in the mentioned sectors but also in people, sustainability, and capacity building. In Kazakhstan, our focus aligns closely with the nation’s strategic priorities—particularly in clean energy, smart infrastructure, and sustainable urban development.
This forum is a valuable platform for open dialogue, transparency, and shared vision. I look forward to hearing from my fellow panelists as we discuss how to unlock Kazakhstan’s full potential as a regional hub for innovation and investment.
Thank you, and I look forward to a productive and insightful discussion.
Question 1: What changes are needed in the region to attract investors?
Thank you for the question.
As an executive representing a global company like Power International Holding, I see strong potential in the region—its strategic location, resource wealth, and national drive for modernization are all major advantages. However, to further enhance investor confidence and drive greater engagement, several key improvements could be considered:
First, enhancing legal and regulatory transparency: While Kazakhstan has made meaningful progress in improving its investment climate, foreign companies often raise concerns about the need for stronger rule of law and more consistent regulatory enforcement. Ensuring that laws are applied uniformly and transparently can significantly boost investor confidence.
Second, investing in human capital and infrastructure: We also highlight the importance of deeper investment in human capital and improved transport and logistics infrastructure. Developing a skilled workforce and modern infrastructure can make the region more attractive to foreign investment.
Third, reducing the overall tax burden, particularly for sectors involved in local production. Lower taxes not only incentivize new industrial projects but also improve return on investment, which is a critical factor for long-term foreign commitments.
Fourth, decreasing reliance on imports by actively supporting domestic manufacturing. Strengthening local value chains reduces external risks, enhances economic sovereignty, and creates more stable, investment-friendly market conditions.
By focusing on these areas, the region can significantly boost its appeal as a destination for sustainable, long-term investment.
Thank you.
Question 2: What are the plans of Power International Holding in the region to support the development of energy links?
Power International Holding, through our subsidiary UCC Holding, is actively engaged in advancing strategic energy projects across Kazakhstan aimed at strengthening regional energy connectivity and supporting the transition to more sustainable systems.
Our focus on the energy and gas sector is driven not only by growing national demand, but also by our commitment to supporting Kazakhstan’s economic development. By expanding energy capacity and promoting a cleaner, more diversified energy mix, we aim to add value to society, enable a better lifestyle, and contribute to a more resilient and forward-looking economy.
In partnership with Samruk-Energy, we have signed an Agreement to develop a 1,100 MW Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plant in Kyzylorda. This project is a key step toward improving the stability, efficiency, and resilience of Kazakhstan’s energy system.
We are also working closely with QazaqGaz and the Ministry of Energy on several major infrastructure projects, including:
• The construction of two gas processing plants, with annual capacities of 1 and 2.5 billion cubic meters, respectively.
• The development of a new compressor station (CS-14) and the Aktobe–Kostanai main gas pipeline.
• The expansion of the Beineu–Bozoi–Shymkent gas pipeline, to boost gas supply across the southern, central, and northern regions of the country.
In addition to our energy commitments, we are expanding into the telecommunications sector. Power International Holding recently acquired Altel and Tele2 Kazakhstan, with the ambition to modernize and develop digital infrastructure, ensuring better connectivity and digital inclusion throughout the country.
Our strategic interest in Kazakhstan also extends to sectors such as mining, agricultural resources, and healthcare, where we see strong potential to contribute to national priorities and sustainable economic growth.
We remain committed to working in close collaboration with local stakeholders to ensure our efforts truly support the country's long-term development and prosperity.
Thank you.
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