Green Energy Diplomacy in Central Asia

Abstract

This study investigates Central Asia’s renewable energy transition within the interconnected frameworks of geopolitics, policy transformation, and international collaboration. It examines the strategic influence of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, the CASA-1000 transmission project, and the role of global financial institutions such as the Asian Development Bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and the World Bank in shaping the region’s energy landscape. The research exposes Kazakhstan as the regional leader in renewable energy policy and deployment, while other states face slower progress due to institutional limitations and financial constraints. Foreign investment and multilateral funding have accelerated infrastructure development particularly in large-scale solar and wind projects yet have also introduced strategic dependencies that underscore the need for robust governance. Regional initiatives and cooperative frameworks emerge as essential tools for addressing transboundary resource challenges, strengthening energy security, and aligning with global sustainable development goals. The study determines that the green transition represents not only a technological transformation but also a diplomatic opportunity, where coordinated policy models and shared infrastructure can deepen cross-border cooperation and advance long-term regional resilience.