Historical Breakthrough: Mongolia and China Unite Energy Networks for the First Time www.open.kg
A new open distribution substation (ODS) 220 kV "Zes-Oyu" has been launched in Mongolia, marking an important step towards diversifying energy resources. The project was fully funded by the "Oyu Tolgoi" company. This substation includes six inputs and a 3-kilometer overhead power line, allowing for the import of electricity from Inner Mongolia (China) during peak winter loads. Thus, Mongolia is ending its half-century dependence on a single electricity supplier.
Construction Achievements and Safety
The scale of the work on the construction of the substation is impressive: the project was implemented with the participation of more than 20 local companies and 2000 Mongolian engineers. The total labor input amounted to over 600,000 man-hours. All construction work was completed without a single case of injury, which demonstrates high safety standards.
Significance for the Energy System
The opening ceremony was attended by key figures in the energy sector, including Mongolia's Minister of Energy Naidalaa Badrah. He emphasized the importance of the new distribution complex for the country, noting that it will enable the import of up to 80 MW of power and enhance the reliability of energy supply in the South Gobi region. This is a historic moment, as Mongolia and China are connecting their energy systems directly for the first time.
Key facts about the project include:
Safety and scale: More than 20 national companies and over 2000 Mongolian specialists are working on the project, completing it without accidents.
Technical specifications: The substation includes six inputs and a 3 km overhead power line.
Relief for the Central Energy System: The imported capacity of 80 MW will reduce the load on the country's energy system.
The commissioning of the ODS "Zes-Oyu" and its connection to the energy system of Inner Mongolia opens new horizons for international cooperation. For the past five decades, Mongolia has been exclusively linked to Russia and is now gaining the opportunity to diversify its energy sources.
Published Date:2026-08-05





