Accepted Paper
Abstract
This paper examines the progress of Central Asian countries in reducing CO₂ emissions within the energy sector by analyzing investment trends in carbon-intensive and low-carbon energy infrastructure from 2008 to 2023, inclusive. The research covers an analysis of investment patterns across Central Asian countries, identifying key energy policies and the evolving landscape of energy infrastructure development. The study highlights that while carbon-intensive energy infrastructure remains significant in the region, there is a growing potential for low-carbon projects. The paper also considers major challenges and opportunities for energy decarbonization. Several ways for energy decarbonization tailored to each country’s context are outlined which could help make meaningful progress towards energy decarbonization in Central Asia.
Keywords: decarbonization, development, energy, infrastructure, investment.
Practicing Politics: Geopolitics and Infrastructure in Contemporary Central Asia
Session 1 Saturday 15 November, 2025, -