Chinese Company Opens Wind Farm in Kazakhstan

Wind turbines are seen on Central Asia's largest wind farm built by a Chinese firm near the city of Zhanatas in the Zhambyl region, Kazakhstan, on May 24. [Photo/Xinhua]

Wang said the trend for domestic developers and turbine makers to jointly build overseas projects is gaining momentum in recent years.

"The project's wind turbine is supplied by Envision, China's major wind turbine manufacturer. This is a win-win partnership for both sides and we expect to continue seeing more similar partnerships in overseas wind power markets," he said.

SPIC, which is also the world's largest investor in solar power plants, said it plans to become a world-class integrated energy group with a global footprint. Its clean energy will account for a big proportion of its overseas business.

Joseph Jacobelli, an independent energy analyst and executive vice-president for Asia business at Cenfura Ltd, said SPIC's wind power project in Kazakhstan is just part of the general investment trend by Chinese electric power groups which has been ongoing for over a decade.

"This (the general investment trend) is not limited to Central Asia or the countries and regions participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, but pretty much the whole world," he said. "Deep construction expertise and strong finances put them in a strong position to successfully secure clean energy projects."

"We could potentially see an acceleration in the short term driven by the lifting of COVID-19 travel restrictions and also an increase in decarbonization commitments from a variety of countries which will raise their need for investments in clean energy. Another trend which we are most likely to see is fewer investments in coal-fired power plants by these groups," he added.

Chinese companies with an outstanding ability in cost control and strong performance in technological advancements in renewable energy have stood out on the global stage when bidding for projects abroad.

During construction, SPIC played its role in fulfilling social responsibilities in those regions where the project is located. It helped with home renovations for poverty-stricken families and green park construction in urban areas and also donated a new ambulance to the local hospital.

SPIC will continue to provide clean, safe and economical power, said company Chairman Qian Zhimin.