Chinese industrial giants have extended a significant offer to Russia’s state-owned energy holding, RusHydro, proposing to supply critical equipment for the second phase of the Mutnovskaya Geothermal Power Plant on the remote Kamchatka Peninsula. This potential collaboration, announced by RusHydro Board Member Roman Berdnikov on the sidelines of the “Electric Grids – 2025” International Forum, signals a deepening of energy ties between the two nations and highlights China’s expanding role in Russia’s strategic infrastructure projects, particularly in the renewable energy sector. The news, reported by the ProVIE agency, underscores a broader trend of Moscow pivoting towards Asian partners amid shifting geopolitical landscapes.
According to RusHydro representatives, several prominent Chinese manufacturers have expressed a clear intent to actively participate in the Mutnovskaya GeoES-2 project, committing to deliver the necessary components for its realization. While the Russian side is currently evaluating the proposition, a definitive decision remains pending. RusHydro, however, maintains a strong emphasis on preserving its own engineering competencies, with design work for the project intended to be handled in-house. The specifics of technical outfitting, especially concerning the binary cycle equipment for the plant — critical technology currently under development by the Russian institute Lengidroproekt — remain the primary subject of ongoing discussions and negotiations with potential Chinese suppliers.
This latest development builds upon earlier strategic dialogues between Moscow and Beijing. The potential engagement of Chinese companies in the construction of the Kamchatka plant was a key topic at the seventh Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum held previously in Beijing. During those high-level discussions, leading Chinese firms including PowerChina, China Energy Engineering Co., Ltd., and Dongfang Electric International Corporation, presented their proposals for supplying binary cycle technology. Beyond the current offer, both countries are already engaged in joint efforts to design a 16.5 MW unit adjacent to the Mutnovskaya plant’s first phase, indicating a robust and expanding framework for energy cooperation.
The prospective deal for the Mutnovskaya Geothermal Power Plant extends beyond conventional energy trade, symbolizing a strategic alignment in development and technology. For Russia, it represents an avenue to leverage international expertise and diversify its supply chains for critical infrastructure projects, particularly in geographically challenging regions like Kamchatka, while simultaneously advancing its renewable energy agenda. For China, it reinforces its position as a global leader in industrial manufacturing and a pivotal partner in international energy development, further solidifying its economic and strategic influence across Eurasia. This geothermal initiative thus serves as a tangible example of the evolving dynamics within the broader Russia-China energy partnership.