30-11-2023 (PHNOM PENH) In a significant shift towards sustainable energy practices, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet declared on Thursday that the nation would no longer permit the establishment of new coal-fired power plants.
Speaking at the inaugural event for the 150-megawatt Upper Tatay Hydropower Station in the southwestern province of Koh Kong, the prime minister disclosed that the Cambodian government is actively exploring options to cease the operation of existing coal-fired power plants before the expiration of their contract terms.
“I would like to announce that if anyone wants to invest in coal-fired power plant projects in Cambodia, please don’t come because it’s a waste of money for air tickets,” he stated. “We don’t allow the development of new coal-fired power plants anymore.”
This announcement follows Hun Manet’s decision earlier this month to abandon a proposed 700-megawatt coal power plant project at the Botum Sakor National Park in Koh Kong province. Instead, he encouraged the project developer to pursue the construction of a liquefied natural gas (LNG)-fired power plant, emphasizing the country’s commitment to green energy.
“Cambodia aims to lift its share of clean energy generation capacity to 70 percent by 2030 from the current 62 percent,” he affirmed. The prime minister further underscored the nation’s encouragement for investments in hydropower, as well as solar and wind farm projects.
