Coal-based generators’ corporate response to an emissions trading scheme in Kazakhstan
Akhmetov D. Howie P.
October 2024Elsevier Ltd
Utilities Policy
2024#90
The power industry remains a central focus of modern climate mitigation policies because of its significant contribution to global GHG emissions and increased global electricity demand. This paper examines Kazakhstans coal-based power-generation companies responses to a national emissions trading scheme (ETS) regulation introduced in 2013 by applying corporate climate strategy and sociotechnical systems frameworks. The in-depth case study is based on 20 interviews with managers of the six largest Kazakhstan coal-based generators and ten interviews with independent industry experts. The empirical data indicate that Kazakhstans ETS has impacted the countrys generators. The companies have responded in the form of non-compliance (i.e., application for additional free allowances), compliance (i.e., purchase of allowances from the ETS), and compliance-plus activities (i.e., exploring investment into renewable energy and fuel switching to natural gas). At the same time, Kazakhstans generators continue the business-as-usual approach by investing in modernizing their coal-generating assets. Therefore, Kazakhstan may consider complementing its ETS regulation with additional policy reforms to support its ambitious objective to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
Climate policy , Corporate carbon strategy , Electricity sector , Emerging economies , Energy transition , ETS , Socio-technical systems , Sustainability policies
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Kaldayakova 1-372, Astana, 010000, Kazakhstan
Graduate School of Public Policy, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Avenue, Astana, 010000, Kazakhstan
Kaldayakova 1-372
Graduate School of Public Policy
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