Kazakhstan: Astana Opts for Life Off the Grid Until April

Kazakhstan will remain unplugged from the Central Asian energy grid until April 15. Officials in Astana justify their action in part by accusing Tajikistan of pilfering electricity.

Valeri Lee, Vice President of Kazakhstan Electricity Grid Operating Company (KEGOC), said the move was a "forced measure." He added that domestic demands were outstripping regional commitments, the KazInform news agency reported on February 27.

Swathes of northern Kyrgyzstan, including parts of Bishkek, have been left in the dark with the introduction of outages between 6pm and 10pm nightly.