The first of several solar power projects in Laos has been set up in Vientiane Capital.
The solar farm project will begin generating 10 Megawatts (MW) of solar power for Vientiane consumers in the upcoming month, says Mr Somphet Arounsavath, project coordinator of EDL-GEN Solar Power.
The initial project will produce at 10 MW before generating 32-50 MW between 2017 to 2018 and up to 100 MW by 2020, Mr Somphet explained.
One source reports that the budgeted total of the project is estimated to be over $3.4 million USD and the life expectancy of these solar panels, produced by TALESUN, is around 25 years.
The first pilot project has been constructed in Chaengsavang Village, Naxaithong District and is expected to replicate three other solar power projects in Vientiane.
Approved by the Ministry of Energy and Mines, the project anticipates collaboration between EDL-Generation Public Company, who holds approximately 60 percent of shares and partner Pure Power Development Company Limited, who holds approximately 40 percent.
The project intends to aid efforts to secure sustainable power supply for consumption in the capital.
In a recent report, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce indicated that the consumption of renewable energy at manufacturing factories and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) should be increased to reach approximately 30 percent of total energy usage nationwide by 2025.
Last year, the United States approved a sizable grant for a 20-megawatt solar power plant feasibility study in the Lao PDR, to power 30,000 households.
The project supports both Lao PDR’s energy sector strategy and clean energy development in Southeast Asia.
