Mayors Challenge application, Kokshetau, Kazakhstan

My name is Anuar Kumpekeyev, and I am proud to serve as the mayor of Kokshetau.
I love my city for its scenic lakes, majestic hills, and rich historical heritage. Our community is strong, and our traditions are passed down through generations. However, we face serious challenges that threaten the well-being of our residents.
My top priorities as mayor are:
• Improving energy efficiency by 15%,
• Modernizing outdated infrastructure from the 1960s, and
• Lowering the financial burden on families by at least 20%,
• all while preserving our city's ecological balance.
The problem we want to address through the Mayors Challenge is the outdated energy systems and rising energy costs. Today, over 40% of homes rely on coal and wood for heating, forcing families to spend up to 20% of their income just to stay warm during harsh winters. This outdated system worsens air pollution and directly impacts public health, with respiratory illnesses increasing by 25% during winter months.
To solve this, we are launching CityXCarbon - a project that empowers residents to become part of the solution. Through a digital platform, households will:
• manage their carbon footprint and receive personalized recommendations for reducing energy consumption;
• access subsidies for insulation and modern heating systems, and
• save money on energy bills while improving their living conditions.
The Mayors Challenge prize will be the catalyst that transforms our city’s approach to this problem. It will allow us to:
• Develop and launch the CityXCarbon platform,
• Fund pilot projects that bring immediate relief to families, and
• Reduce harmful emissions while creating healthier homes and cleaner air for everyone.
This is not just a project - it’s a transformation for every resident of Kokshetau.
With $1M, we will reach at least 10,000 households in the first phase, providing them with tools to save up to 30% on energy bills and improve living conditions this winter. With your support, we can build a sustainable, energy-efficient future for our city and set an example for others to follow.
Thank you.