Laos signs $1.45B clean energy deal with China Western Power

Laos has signed a major $1.45 billion clean energy agreement with China Western Power Industrial to develop a 1,800-megawatt power project in southern Laos, in collaboration with a Singapore-based construction company. This initiative is part of Laos' strategy to enhance its clean power generation and transmission capabilities, aiming for project completion by early 2030. Additionally, a $228.8 million power transmission agreement was also established with the same company. The deal follows previous contracts in 2022, reflecting ongoing cooperation in the energy sector between Laos and China. Although specific energy sources for the project have not been disclosed, Laos has historically generated 80% of its electricity from hydropower and is looking to diversify its energy mix. Electricity exports are crucial to Laos' economy, earning it the title of