Laos energy storage project invests 2 billion

How much electricity does Lao generate?

Last year, Lao hydropower plants generated 8,349 MW of electricity, accounting for one-third of the potential capacity, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency. In September 2021, another landmark BRI project — the Nam Ou River hydropower station, developed by PowerChina — was connected to the grid.

What percentage of Laos' Hydropower is Chinese investment?

One industry insider told the Global Times that Chinese investment accounts for about 70 percent of Lao hydropower capacity. "Laos is catching up in exploring hydropower resources, but shortages in transmission lines and distribution systems are still acute, which blunts its capacity to increase electricity exports.

Will Laos build a 600-megawatt wind power plant?

In November, Power Construction Corp of China (PowerChina) signed a contract with a Lao company to construct a 600-megawatt (MW) wind power plant in southern Laos, PowerChina said in a statement sent to the Global Times on Tuesday.

Will Laos export electricity to Vietnam?

It is the first wind power project in Laos, and it will export electricity to Vietnam, the first time that Laos will engage in cross-border transmission of green and renewable electricity.

How many Cascade hydropower plants are there in Laos?

It includes seven cascade hydropower plants along the Nam Ou River, which is the largest tributary of the Mekong River in Laos. The construction plan is the most reasonable one, as it eliminates the number of local residents who need to be relocated and the impact on the environment, PowerChina said.

Why is electricity important in Laos?

Electricity export has become an important driver of the Lao economy. According to media reports, electricity has contributed to over 10 percent of GDP and 30 percent of its export volume for many years. The main export destinations are Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Singapore.