Cambodia Boosts Renewable Power Imports by 600 MW

Cambodia plans to increase its capacity to import clean power from neighboring Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand by over 600 megawatts (MW), marking a more than 50% increase from current agreements. The country will import 300 MW of solar and hydro capacity from Laos starting in 2026 and is finalizing an agreement to nearly double a 300 MW deal with Vietnam, along with potential imports of 100 MW from Thailand. Energy Minister Keo Rottanak emphasized that these imports aim to diversify power supply amid rising volatility in hydropower output and will complement domestic power generation. Currently, Cambodia has contracts for 1,030 MW of power imports, accounting for nearly a quarter of its total capacity. The government has also approved 23 domestic power projects worth $5.7 billion, highlighting the importance of electricity in supporting various sectors of the economy. Rottanak anticipates the establishment of a regional grid by 2035, enhancing interconnection across Southeast Asia.