Central Asian Network for Sustainable Energy Transition

As AI and cloud computing continue to drive unprecedented growth in electricity demand, data centers are rapidly emerging as one of the world’s most strategic infrastructure sectors. In this episode of the CAN-SET Podcast, we explore whether Central Asia is positioned to benefit from this shift and what it would take for the region to become a competitive hub for digital infrastructure. Together w...

This episode explores a question that sits behind many energy and infrastructure projects across Central Asia: why do some projects succeed while others fail? While financing, technology and regulation are often seen as the primarily factors the discussion highlights the equally important role of public perception, stakeholder trust and social acceptance in determining long term project outcomes....

In this episode of the CAN-SET Podcast, we explore the role of geothermal energy in East Africa’s sustainable development. As the region faces growing energy demand, climate risks, and the need for reliable baseload power, geothermal emerges as a critical solution linking clean energy, water security, and inclusive economic growth. Together with our guest, a TechWomen Fellow and sustainability pra...

Kyrgyzstan stands at a pivotal moment in its energy journey. With its heavy reliance on hydropower, growing demand, and increasing climate pressures, the country faces both urgent challenges and remarkable opportunities. In this episode, we explore how Kyrgyzstan can modernize its energy infrastructure, unlock renewable potential, and build a just and resilient transition—while creating new pathwa...

In this episode, we explore why building local skills is critical to driving a just and sustainable energy transition in Central Asia. Our guest shares insights on effective workforce development, drawing on the experience of Solar Energy Skills Development Project in Kyrgyzstan. We discuss key challenges, practical training approaches, and how such initiatives can be scaled and supported across t...

In this episode, we examine the dynamic energy landscape of the Republic of Tajikistan—shaped by its post-Soviet transformation, significant reliance on hydropower, and the increasing pressures of climate change and infrastructure limitations. From seasonal energy shortages to challenges in regional energy interdependence, we discuss the key vulnerabilities affecting the country’s energy security...

This episode of CAN-SET podcast focuses on the complex and evolving relationship between water, climate, and industrial development in Central Asia. A leading regional expert shares insights on the legacy of Soviet-era infrastructure, changing approaches to transboundary water cooperation, and the accelerating impact of climate change. Key themes include the vulnerabilities in the water-energy-foo...

Hydrogen is rapidly emerging as a key solution in the global push for decarbonization, offering pathways to reduce emissions across industry, transport, and power. In Central Asia, where renewable energy potential is vast and interest in clean technologies is growing, hydrogen is gaining traction as a strategic priority. This episode explores the current state of hydrogen development in the region...

In this episode of the CAN-SET Podcast, we explore how Uzbekistan is navigating the complex intersection of agriculture, energy, and climate resilience. With farming practices that are both water- and energy-intensive, the country faces a critical challenge — and opportunity — to green its rural economy. Join us as we discuss: The energy footprint of Uzbekistan’s agriculture sector Innovative uses...

Clean technologies and digitalization are transforming the global energy landscape, optimizing energy systems, reducing emissions, and enhancing efficiency. In Central Asia, where fossil fuels remain dominant but renewable energy potential is vast, these advancements could be key to accelerating the transition toward a more sustainable future. This episode explores how AI-driven energy management,...

In this episode of the Central Asian Network for Sustainable Energy Transition, we explore how legal frameworks can accelerate Kazakhstan’s shift to renewable energy. We discuss the country’s legal landscape, challenges in enforcing policies amid fossil fuel reliance and geopolitical shifts, and key opportunities for reforms and regional collaboration. In addition, we highlight success stories tha...

Energy security is at the heart of economic stability, political independence, and climate resilience. Yet, Central Asia’s deep reliance on fossil fuels presents both a challenge and an opportunity. As the region navigates the complexities of transitioning to sustainable energy, a key question emerges: How can Central Asian countries secure their energy future while reducing dependence on fossil f...

Can regional collaboration drive the energy transition forward, or does history continue to hold us back? Regionalism in Central Asia has been both a catalyst for progress and a point of contention. As the region navigates the urgent need for a just energy transition, greater cooperation could open doors to sustainability, energy security, and economic resilience. However, historical tensions, pol...

Welcome to Adapting for Change: The Technology Behind Central Asia’s Energy Shift, the podcast episode where we explore the intersection of technology, policy, and community in building a sustainable future. In today’s episode, we dive into a pivotal topic: the energy transition shaping Central Asia. This region, with its rich history of resource reliance, is now poised for a transformative shift...

The energy transition is not just about advanced technology or cutting-edge innovation—it is about people. It is about creating opportunities for communities to take ownership of their energy futures, build resilience, and foster economic and social benefits. That is why I am excited to share the latest episode of the EU’s experience of Establishing Energy Cooperatives and possibility of the Model...

Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, with particularly significant impacts on Central Asia—a region defined by its unique geographical, economic, and cultural characteristics. In this episode, we examine the intricate interplay between climate change and regional interconnectivity, exploring how this shared challenge is shaping the future of Central Asian countries. T...

Welcome to this special episode of the Central Asian Network for Sustainable Energy Transition podcast, where we celebrate the conclusion of our first season! With listeners from over 21 countries—including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, the United States, and Azerbaijan—we’ve explored key topics like green finance, renewable energy, hydrogen, gender equality, and more. In the episode we reflect on the i...

Water is one of the most vital resources in Central Asia, yet its availability and distribution are shaped by complex geographic, climatic, and political factors. In this episode, we explore the region’s main water sources—rivers, glaciers, and aquifers—and examine how these are distributed across countries. We also discuss how Central Asian countries use water across key sectors such as agricultu...

Ms. Christine Lins, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Global Women’s Network for Energy Transition (GWNET), joined us to discuss key questions on building a supportive energy network. Why is creating a resilient energy network so critical? What steps can facilitate the development of a strong energy community in Central Asia? What are the main challenges and opportunities in the region? The...

In the episode the critical questions surrounding the role of nuclear energy in building sustainable energy systems were explored. Topics included the benefits and challenges of integrating nuclear power plants (NPPs), tools in assessing a country’s readiness for nuclear involvement, and identifying the best financial models to ensure revenue and secure financing in emerging markets. The conversat...

How to embed sustainability in everyday business life to promote a positive change? How to build a sustainable business culture and create a social impact? The topic was explored with Co-Authors of the book Embedding Sustainability (https://www.embeddingsustainability.com) Lisen Wiren and Pia Heidenmark Cook. 

Gender equality is still one of the most sensitive topics on the energy transition pathway. What does gender equality imply and why is it so important to take immediate actions? How many generations do we still need to reach gender parity in Central Asia? Why is gender critical? All of these issues were discussed in the episode 5 of CAN SET podcast with Ms. Silvia Sartori, an international sustain...

What does “green” hydrogen mean for the Central Asian “energy” transition? What opportunities and challenges we face on the Central Asian “green” hydrogen pathway? Is hydrogen might be a solution for the water scarcity? Is regional cooperation in “green” hydrogen strategy possible? All of these questions we discussed with Hydrogenious Dr. Saule Zholdayakova, a leading expert in Green hydrogen, act...

Размышления по вопросам устойчивого энергоперехода в Кыргызской Республике. Какой текущий статус? С какими проблемами сталкивается страна и какие возможности существуют сегодня? Каков потенциал для инвестиций? Thoughts on sustainable energy transition issues in Kyrgyz Republic. What is the status? What are the challenges that the country face and what are the opportunities? What is the potential f...

Что такое “зеленое” финансирование? Как оно зародилось в Центральной Азии? Каковы проблемы и возможности для развития “зеленого” финансирования в Центральной Азии? Следите за новостями Central Asian Network for Sustainable Energy Transition в Instagram: @can_set_podcast What is the “green” finance? How did it started in Central Asia? What are the challenges and opportunities for “green” finance de...