2 July 2010: During an official visit to Kazakhstan, Kandeh K. Yumkella, Director-General of the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), urged Kazakhstan to increase energy efficiency and develop renewable energy sources in order to de-carbonize the power sector, help promote energy security and address climate change issues.

Stressing that Kazakhstan is rich in fossil fuels and renewable energy sources, such as hydro, wind, solar, biomass, and geothermal energy, Yumkella pointed out that renewable resources currently account for only about 1% of the country’s energy balance. Noting considerable scope for further development, he called on Kazakhstan to promote further exploration in energy sources, including renewable energy. Yumkella added that UNIDO and other UN agencies were ready to support the development and deployment of new technologies in Kazakhstan, and catalyze investments for energy security. [UNIDO Press Release]