Cambodia’s Power Strategy under the Energy Policy sets three major developments: Development of Rural Electrification. Cambodia considers renewable energy as a tool for rural development.
Development of Rural Electrification. Cambodia considers renewable energy as a tool for rural development. The Master Plan Study on Rural Electrification by Renewable Energy in the Kingdom of Cambodia in 2012 defines rural electrification in three levels: (i) battery lighting, (ii) mini-grid, and (iii) national grid.
But for 2032 onwards, Cambodia would need the remaining around $6.7b to fund hydrodams, solar plants, and battery energy storage systems projects. “This is actually an indication that Cambodia is looking to attract more investment into its power sector,” said Thoo.
According to the MME 7th Mandate, 31 percent of Cambodia’s renewables – accounting for 71 percent of total energy generation – should come from solar energy and pumped storage hydro by 2030. By 2040, renewables should account for 74 percent of the total energy mix.
Battery Energy Storage Systems will account for 3.6% of the total in 2030 at 200 MW and will increase to 420 MW, comprising 5.8%. Cambodia will not have natural gas in 2030 but it will account for 8.5% in 2040 at 900 MW. Meanwhile, its imports from Laos and Thailand will be at 3,095 megawatts (MW) and 700 MW, respectively by 2030.
Cambodia’s energy landscape The country’s total final energy consumption is expected to double from the 2020 levels to reach 14 million tonnes of oil equivalent (mtoe), according to a report by the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE). This will be led by the transport sector (46%), industry (24%), and residential (16%).