On August 27, 2025, a regional session dedicated to the implementation of the national project "Energy and Utilities Sectors: Modernization and Development" was held in Shymkent. The meeting was chaired by Arman Malik, a representative of the Committee for the Regulation of Natural Monopolies of the Ministry of National Economy of the Republic of Kazakhstan. In his opening speech, he emphasized that modernizing utility and energy systems is an integral part of the country's sustainable development and directly impacts the quality of life of citizens.

The speaker noted that the main goal of the national project is to create modern utility networks capable of ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the entire infrastructure. Particular attention is paid to the involvement of domestic businesses and manufacturers, as their active participation helps reduce costs, stimulate the development of local companies, and strengthen the domestic market. The session was attended by Deputy Akim Arman Sabitov, representatives of natural monopolies, design and construction companies, domestic manufacturers, entrepreneurs, industry associations, financial institutions, and delegations from the Turkestan and Zhambyl regions. This broad participation ensured a comprehensive discussion of key aspects of the project's implementation.

The discussion focused on the practical tools the national project provides for modernizing utility networks and attracting additional investment in strategically important sectors. Participants stated that the project will serve as the foundation for the long-term development of not only the utilities sector but the entire regional economy.

Representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Construction, JSC Baiterek – National Management Holding, JSC KazCenter Housing and Utilities, and JSC Development Bank of Kazakhstan presented their reports. They provided detailed information on the current state of affairs, the results achieved, and the prospects for the coming years.

It was particularly emphasized that the effective implementation of the national project is only possible through partnership between the government, business, and the expert community. This trilateral format allows for the interests of all parties to be taken into account and ensures the transparency of decision-making.

Special attention was given to the modernization of sewer networks. Su Resurstary Marketing LLC currently operates networks with a deterioration rate of 73.5%. To reduce the load and improve system reliability, 164.4 kilometers of sewer lines are planned for reconstruction.

The implementation of this project will reduce network depreciation by 16%. Total investment in Shymkent by 2026 will amount to 44.9 billion tenge. This will not only significantly upgrade the utility infrastructure but also create additional jobs and provide new opportunities for domestic construction and engineering companies.

The session also discussed modern management methods and digital solutions that will be implemented in the modernization process. Specifically, the use of smart grid technologies, monitoring systems, and infrastructure deterioration forecasting were discussed. Such innovations make it possible to identify potential problems early and reduce the risk of emergency situations.

Participants noted that the successful implementation of the national project will be an important step toward creating a sustainable urban environment. The new infrastructure will provide residents with high-quality services, reduce the burden on the budget, and create conditions for further economic growth.

The regional session in Shymkent became an important platform for discussing challenges and prospects. It allowed for the exchange of experiences, identification of pressing issues, and the identification of concrete steps to address them.

Experts believe that such events help shape a unified approach to modernizing utility and energy systems across the country. Furthermore, they facilitate more active business involvement in the implementation of government initiatives, making the process not only more effective but also socially significant.

The meeting concluded with a confirmation of the need to further strengthen the partnership between government agencies, businesses, and the expert community. It was noted that the national project is not a one-time event, but a long-term program aimed at fundamental changes in the energy and utilities sectors.

Large-scale investments are planned for the coming years, which will upgrade aging networks, introduce modern technologies, and improve the quality of services provided. All of this will create new opportunities for regional development, attract investors, and improve citizens' living standards.

Thus, the session held in Shymkent demonstrated that the national project to modernize the energy and utilities sectors is becoming an important tool in shaping Kazakhstan's new infrastructure policy. Implementing the identified objectives will create a solid foundation for sustainable economic development and improved public welfare.