Blackout tests Central Asia push for deeper power grid, data centers

EnergyNew computing loads, winter deficit, probes weigh on electricity market planKyrgyzstan says that its Toktogul hydropower plant was the source of the power trip. (Administration of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic)YEVGENIYA MIKHAILIDIAugust 24, 2026 09:20 JSTISTANBUL -- Central Asia's plans to boost energy connectivity while building power-hungry data centers are under scrutiny after a power outage hit four countries recently.Read NextEnergyChina-made solar parts under scrutiny after Spain-Portugal power cutArtificial intelligenceStarting gun for Central Asia data center race triggeredEnergyUzbekistan draws new-energy investors in move away from gasEnergyRussia fuel crisis spills over to Central Asia as drone strikes biteEnergyIran war energy crisis sparks Philippine solar boomEne