Can you tell us about Cambodia’s efforts in clean energy development and its goals for the future?
Cambodia is making significant strides in advancing clean energy to lessen its dependence on imported power, enhance energy security, and ensure a reliable and affordable electricity supply. This initiative is part of the nation’s ambitious target to achieve at least 70% clean energy by 2030.
Recently, the Cambodian government approved 23 investment projects in the electricity sector slated for the 2024 to 2029 period, which are expected to attract a total investment of $5.79 billion. According to The Khmer Times, these projects encompass a diverse range of energy sources, including 12 solar energy initiatives, six wind energy projects, a joint biomass and solar project, a liquefied natural gas (LNG) power plant, a hydroelectric project, and two energy storage facilities.
These initiatives are poised to significantly enhance Cambodia’s domestic electricity supply capabilities, providing more reliable and affordable power to tackle the country’s electricity shortages and meet the increasing demand on the national grid.
How does the Cambodian government prioritize environmental sustainability in its energy policies?
The Cambodian government is committed to sustainable environmental development. During a lecture on “Cambodia Energy Policy” at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, Minister of Mines and Energy Koh Lanthana emphasized that the country will not construct new coal-fired power plants moving forward. He also highlighted Cambodia’s public commitment to refrain from building hydroelectric dams on the Mekong River.
Koh Lanthana mentioned that by 2026, wind energy is expected to be fully integrated into the national grid, which will help diversify and fortify the country’s energy supply. While Cambodia currently leans on coal for energy needs due to cost and supply reliability issues, authorities are dedicated to increasing investments in and the development of clean energy sources.
According to The Phnom Penh Post, by the end of 2023, Cambodia had successfully electrified over 14,000 villages, encompassing 99.88% of its total area. The government aims to expand clean energy projects further to stabilize electricity prices, lower living costs for citizens, and promote growth in industries, trade, and agriculture.
