Improving energy efficiency and fostering a culture of rational energy consumption are important components of the sustainable development of modern cities.
One of the internationally recognized approaches in this area is the First Fuel concept, which regards energy efficiency as a priority energy resource. Its core principle is to reduce excessive consumption and energy losses before expanding additional power generation capacity.
Rational energy consumption does not imply compromising comfort. It involves the use of energy-efficient technologies, modern metering and management systems, as well as the development of responsible energy consumption habits.
“For Alatau City, it is important to embed energy efficiency principles from the very outset, at the city planning and design stage. Modern building codes and design requirements should provide for the use of technologies that minimize energy losses and ensure efficient energy consumption. Looking ahead, we are also considering mechanisms for managing demand during peak hours, including differentiated tariffs that encourage shifting part of electricity consumption to off-peak periods. Another promising area is the development of distributed generation based on renewable energy sources. Businesses and residents that generate their own electricity could feed surplus power into the grid, provided that appropriate economic incentives are in place. Taken together, these measures will help reduce pressure on the power system and create a more efficient energy consumption model for the city,” said Timur Tashmukhambetov, Director of the Department of Design and Building Standards at Alatau City Authority.
Alatau City therefore plans to integrate energy efficiency principles into its urban development framework from the outset. This approach will contribute to creating a sustainable urban environment and supporting the city’s long-term development.