In a recent development, Cambodia’s National Assembly (NA) has given its seal of approval for the construction and payment guarantees of six clean-energy plants, marking a significant stride towards achieving sustainable energy goals in the country. These projects, with a combined capacity of 670 megawatts (MW), include four solar power developments and two hydropower projects.
The approval of these clean-energy initiatives is expected to stabilize the energy supply and reduce energy prices in Cambodia. With the four solar power projects located in Prey Veng, Pursat, Svay Rieng, and Kampong Chhnang provinces, and the two hydropower projects in Koh Kong province, the nation will witness a substantial boost in its clean electricity generation capacity.
The projects have been hailed as instrumental in implementing government policies, advancing the economy, promoting social development, and alleviating poverty. Alongside their positive socio-economic impact, these initiatives will also play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and protecting the environment, contributing to the global efforts to combat climate change.
During the NA session, President Heng Samrin emphasized the significance of energy security for the local manufacturing sector. Access to affordable and reliable energy is of utmost importance for businesses, as it helps keep production costs low and ensures competitiveness in both regional and international markets. The approved clean-energy projects will provide the necessary energy stability to support the growth of the manufacturing sector and boost Cambodia’s economic progress.
According to the Electricity Authority of Cambodia (EAC), there has been a notable increase in per-customer average electricity consumption in recent years among medium- and large-scale commercial and industrial customers. This further highlights the urgent need for expanded energy capacity, making the approval of these clean-energy projects even more crucial.
As of the end of 2022, Cambodia’s installed power capacity stood at 4,495MW, with around 62 percent of the national grid being powered by clean energy sources including hydropower, solar, and biomass. Additionally, the country imported over 1,000MW of electricity from neighboring countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, and Laos. These figures showcase Cambodia’s commitment to clean energy and the continuous efforts towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future.
The approval of the six clean-energy plants represents a major milestone in Cambodia’s journey towards achieving a greener and more stable energy landscape. It not only ensures access to reliable and affordable energy but also demonstrates the nation’s commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable development. With these initiatives in place, Cambodia is poised to make significant progress in its sustainable energy goals and set an example for other nations to follow.
