Central Asian Network for Sustainable Energy Transition

As AI and cloud computing continue to drive unprecedented growth in electricity demand, data centers are rapidly emerging as one of the world’s most strategic infrastructure sectors. In this episode of the CAN-SET Podcast, we explore whether Central Asia is positioned to benefit from this shift and what it would take for the region to become a competitive hub for digital infrastructure.

Together with Yerassyl Ayubekov, Chief Commercial Officer at Akashi Data Center, we discuss the future of data center development in Central Asia.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by guests are solely their own and do not represent those of CAN SET, its host, partners, sponsors, affiliated organizations, or media collaborators. The content is provided for informational and discussion purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, financial, regulatory, or investment advice. CAN SET does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of statements made during the discussion. Sponsor involvement does not influence editorial decisions. Statements reflect the views of participants at the time of recording and extend to all published, adapted, and broadcast versions of the content.

This episode explores a question that sits behind many energy and infrastructure projects across Central Asia: why do some projects succeed while others fail? While financing, technology and regulation are often seen as the primarily factors the discussion highlights the equally important role of public perception, stakeholder trust and social acceptance in determining long term project outcomes. Together with Dr. Jessica Neafie we discuss how perception, stakeholder engagement and ESG practices share real project implementation in the region.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by guests are solely their own and do not represent those of CAN SET, its host, partners, sponsors, affiliated organizations, or media collaborators. The content is provided for informational and discussion purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, financial, regulatory, or investment advice. CAN SET does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of statements made during the discussion. Sponsor involvement does not influence editorial decisions. Statements reflect the views of participants at the time of recording and extend to all published, adapted, and broadcast versions of the content.

In this episode of the CAN-SET Podcast, we explore the role of geothermal energy in East Africa’s sustainable development. As the region faces growing energy demand, climate risks, and the need for reliable baseload power, geothermal emerges as a critical solution linking clean energy, water security, and inclusive economic growth.

Together with our guest, a TechWomen Fellow and sustainability practitioner working at the water–energy nexus, we discuss how community-centered engineering, innovation, and leadership can accelerate renewable energy deployment. We also reflect on lessons from East Africa that resonate far beyond the region, including for Central Asia and other emerging markets navigating the global energy transition.

Kyrgyzstan stands at a pivotal moment in its energy journey. With its heavy reliance on hydropower, growing demand, and increasing climate pressures, the country faces both urgent challenges and remarkable opportunities.

In this episode, we explore how Kyrgyzstan can modernize its energy infrastructure, unlock renewable potential, and build a just and resilient transition—while creating new pathways for investment and sustainable growth across the region.

In this episode, we explore why building local skills is critical to driving a just and sustainable energy transition in Central Asia. Our guest shares insights on effective workforce development, drawing on the experience of Solar Energy Skills Development Project in Kyrgyzstan. We discuss key challenges, practical training approaches, and how such initiatives can be scaled and supported across the region.

In this episode, we examine the dynamic energy landscape of the Republic of Tajikistan—shaped by its post-Soviet transformation, significant reliance on hydropower, and the increasing pressures of climate change and infrastructure limitations. From seasonal energy shortages to challenges in regional energy interdependence, we discuss the key vulnerabilities affecting the country’s energy security and explore strategic pathways toward a more resilient and sustainable energy future. 

Our guest provides thoughtful reflections on the intersection of policy, development, and international cooperation—highlighting both the opportunities and complexities of Tajikistan’s green transition. This episode offers valuable perspectives for policymakers, development practitioners, researchers, and anyone interested in advancing sustainable energy in Central Asia.

This episode of CAN-SET podcast focuses on the complex and evolving relationship between water, climate, and industrial development in Central Asia. A leading regional expert shares insights on the legacy of Soviet-era infrastructure, changing approaches to transboundary water cooperation, and the accelerating impact of climate change.

Key themes include the vulnerabilities in the water-energy-food nexus, the rise of modern technologies such as floating solar and wastewater reuse, and the challenges of scaling solutions in water-stressed, energy-intensive sectors. The conversation also highlights governance gaps, policy needs, and the importance of community engagement for a just transition.

Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on current regional dynamics, successful innovations, and the essential skills and mindsets for those working at the intersection of water, energy, and climate in Central Asia.

Hydrogen is rapidly emerging as a key solution in the global push for decarbonization, offering pathways to reduce emissions across industry, transport, and power. In Central Asia, where renewable energy potential is vast and interest in clean technologies is growing, hydrogen is gaining traction as a strategic priority.

This episode explores the current state of hydrogen development in the region—examining opportunities for scaling up, the role of international cooperation, and the actions needed to turn ambition into implementation. With insights from a leading expert in the field (Dr. Yury Melnikov, International Sustainable Energy Consultant https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurymelnikov), we discuss what it will take to build a viable hydrogen future for Central Asia.

In this episode of the CAN-SET Podcast, we explore how Uzbekistan is navigating the complex intersection of agriculture, energy, and climate resilience. With farming practices that are both water- and energy-intensive, the country faces a critical challenge — and opportunity — to green its rural economy.

Join us as we discuss:

The energy footprint of Uzbekistan’s agriculture sector
Innovative uses of renewables like solar and biogas in farming
Policy shifts and barriers to clean energy adoption in rural areas
How the energy transition can be made inclusive for smallholder farmers, women, and youth
This conversation sheds light on the potential to build a more sustainable and equitable future from the ground up.

Clean technologies and digitalization are transforming the global energy landscape, optimizing energy systems, reducing emissions, and enhancing efficiency. In Central Asia, where fossil fuels remain dominant but renewable energy potential is vast, these advancements could be key to accelerating the transition toward a more sustainable future.

This episode explores how AI-driven energy management, smart grids, and IoT applications are reshaping the sector. We will also discuss real-world success stories, key challenges, and the policy and investment opportunities that can drive this transformation.

Joining us is Dr. Anna Broughel, a lecturer at Johns Hopkins University and an expert in clean energy policy, to share insights on how digital tools are revolutionizing the energy sector.