ABSTRACT
This chapter examines potential transition pathways for energy infrastructure in Central Asia that can reconcile global decarbonization trends with the region’s goals for sustained and inclusive growth. It begins with a review of current estimates of regional energy resource potential, production, export infrastructure, and export market prospects, combining the most up-to-date publicly available information with our own projections.
The chapter then examines potential transition strategies using a well-defined set of pathway scenarios, including different assumptions about energy resource mix (oil, natural gas, wind, solar, nuclear), energy carriers (natural gas, hydrogen, electricity), distribution infrastructure (pipelines, electric power transmission systems), and export demand. Both status quo policies and more innovative strategies are considered. Finally, the chapter proposes metrics for economic progress attributable to Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation program modernization and integration, based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
