UNITED NATIONS – The Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) on Friday said that investing in renewable energy could promote economic and industrial development in Kazakhstan.

“As an emerging leader in Central Asia, Kazakhstan needs to promote more exploration in energy sources, including renewable energy,” Kandeh K. Yumkella, Director-General of UNIDO said during the 3rd Astana Economic Forum, held in the Nation’s capital.

He said that Kazakhstan is rich in both fossil fuels and renewable energy sources, including hyrdo-, wind-, solar-, biomass-, and geothermal-energy. However, he noted that renewable resources for only one percent of Kazakhstan’s energy balance, and have a large room for improvement and development.

“Immense opportunities exist in Central Asia, and particularly in Kazakhstan, that can help address energy and climate issues,” he added.

UNIDO and other UN agencies are ready to support the development and deployment of new renewable energy technologies in Kazakhstan. He noted that the country’s population of 15 million requires the growth of a decentralized energy system to give support to small and medium-sized enterprises and industries in the country.

He concluded, saying that UNIDO is ready to help Kazakhstan develop trade capacity, small and medium industries and businesses, give industrial policy advice, as well as institutional support. The Director-General also discussed the possibility of opening a UNIDO office in the country.