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Laos to Introduce New Rules to Strengthen Lao Kip, Reduce Reliance on Foreign Currency

Lao Kip Money (Photo: istock)

In an effort to stabilize the national economy and reduce reliance on foreign currencies, the Bank of Laos and the Lao government are set to implement new regulations aimed at strengthening the value of the Lao kip. 

Successful Completion: The Yunlin Offshore Wind Farm Project in Taiwan is now fully operational

• Yunlin OWF fully operational and running at design capacity of 640 MW
• Enough clean energy to power over 600,000 Taiwanese homes annually
• Major step for Taiwan’s offshore wind farm and renewable energy sectors

HAMBURG, GERMANY – EQS Newswire – 3 February 2025 – Skyborn Renewables (Skyborn) and its partners in Yunneng Wind Power Co., Ltd. (Yunneng) are pleased to announce a major milestone: The Yunlin Offshore Wind Farm (OWF) is now fully operational and producing clean energy at its design capacity of 640 MW. All 80 wind turbine generators (WTGs) have been successfully installed and are producing electricity, powering Taiwanese homes and businesses. This achievement marks a major step forward in Taiwan’s offshore wind farm and renewable energy sectors, contributing to the country’s transition to a sustainable energy future. Yunneng, a joint venture between Skyborn, TotalEnergies, Electricity Generating Public Company (EGCO Group), and Sojitz Corporation (Sojitz), is responsible for the construction and operation of the Yunlin OWF.

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As one of Taiwan’s largest offshore wind farms, the 640 MW Yunlin OWF generates enough clean energy to power over 600,000 Taiwanese homes annually. With a capacity of 2,400 Gigawatt hours (GWh), and meeting 90% of Yunlin County’s non-industrial electricity needs, the Yunlin OWF will also reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 1,200,000 tons per year. The development and construction was led by Skyborn, with the support of its partners. Following the commercial operations date (COD), which is envisaged for June 2025, TotalEnergies will take the lead of the technical operations management, whilst Skyborn will continue to lead all other management services.

“I’m proud to see the 640 MW Yunlin Offshore Wind Farm now generating at full capacity. This project is a testament to our commitment to creating lasting value for our partners and society and delivering on our promises. We promised to deliver it, and we’ve done just that. I’d like to extend a special thanks to the Taiwanese government for their unwavering support throughout this project,” said Patrick Lammers, CEO of Skyborn.

“We are pleased with the completion of the Yunlin offshore wind farm, which is now producing at its planned capacity. The 640 MW project, realized together with our partners, will help Taiwan reach its 2025 target of 5.7 GW of offshore wind power. This achievement, which contributes to the growth of free cash flow from our electricity business, marks a new step towards TotalEnergies’ goal of exceeding 100 TWh of net electricity production by 2030,” said Olivier Jouny, Senior Vice President Renewables at TotalEnergies.

“We are delighted that the Yunlin Offshore Wind Farm has successfully commenced its commercial operations with a total capacity of 640 MW, as the first offshore wind project in our power portfolio. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of all relevant parties with efficient construction planning and project management capabilities. We especially thank the Taiwanese government for their continuous support in all aspects of the project. The achievement also fulfils EGCO Group’s business strategy that addresses sustainable growth across all dimensions by balancing business opportunities, profitability, and our low-carbon organizational targets,” said Dr. Jiraporn Sirikum, President of EGCO Group.

“We are honoured to see the Yunlin Offshore Wind Farm commence its operations, as our first offshore wind project. This achievement is in line with our strong commitment to create “value for society” for developing local economies and environmental conservation. We extend our deepest gratitude to our valued partners, senior lenders, EPC contractors and all stakeholders, which have been crucial in making this project a reality,” said Takefumi Nishikawa, Executive Officer, COO of Energy Solutions & Healthcare Division at Sojitz.

The Yunlin OWF is located in the Taiwan Strait, between 8 and 17 km off the west coast of Taiwan, at water depths from 7 up to 35 m. The 82 km² project area comprises 80 WTGs, whose generated electricity is fed into the Taiwanese power grid via two onshore substations near the townships of Taixi and Sihu in Yunlin County. Electricity from the project is provided to Taiwan Power Company (TPC) under two 20-year power purchase agreements. The project is backed by a strong financial consortium established in 2019, including Taiwanese and international banks alongside export credit agencies.

Shareholders of Yunneng Wind Power Co., Ltd.

About Skyborn Renewables (Skyborn)
Skyborn is an accomplished offshore wind developer and operator with more than 20 years’ experience, headquartered in Germany. The company’s capabilities cover the entire offshore wind value chain, including greenfield development, project engineering and design, procurement, financing, corporate power purchase agreements, construction management and asset management. Skyborn is a portfolio company of New York based Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a leading infrastructure investor and part of Blackrock.

About TotalEnergies
TotalEnergies is a global integrated energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. Our more than 100,000 employees are committed to provide as many people as possible with energy that is more reliable, more affordable and more sustainable. Active in about 120 countries, TotalEnergies places sustainability at the heart of its strategy, its projects and its operations.

As part of its ambition to get to net zero by 2050, TotalEnergies is building a world class cost-competitive portfolio combining renewables (solar, onshore and offshore wind) and flexible assets (CCGT, storage) to deliver clean firm power to its customers. By the end of 2024, TotalEnergies’ gross renewable electricity generation installed capacity reached over 24 GW. TotalEnergies will continue to expand this business to reach 35 GW in 2025 and more than 100 TWh of net electricity production by 2030.

TotalEnergies’ portfolio in offshore wind has a total capacity of more than 18 GW, with most farms bottom-fixed. These projects are in the United Kingdom (Seagreen, Outer Dowsing, West of Orkney and Erebus), South Korea (Bada), Taiwan (Yunlin and Haiding 2), France (Eolmed), the United States (Attentive Energy and Carolina Long Bay), in the Netherlands (OranjeWind), in Germany (Nordsee Energies 1 & 2, Ostsee Energies, N-9.1 and N-9.2).

About Electricity Generating Public Company Limited (EGCO Group)
EGCO Group is the first Independent Power Producer in Thailand. EGCO Group presently has a total equity capacity of 7,019 MWe in operation and under construction. Total equity capacity from renewable energy is 1,463 MWe (equivalent to 21% of the total portfolio). The RE portfolio includes biomass, hydropower, solar power, onshore and offshore wind power, fuel cells, and battery storage. EGCO Group’s facilities are located in 8 countries, namely Thailand, Lao PDR, the Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, South Korea, Taiwan and USA. In addition, EGCO Group has also 11 other energy-related businesses including the fuel and infrastructure business group and the customer solution and startup business group. EGCO Group has been listed in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) for four consecutive years (2020-2023) and aims to achieve Net Zero goal by 2050. Learn more about EGCO Group through our website at www.egco.com

About Sojitz Corporation (Sojitz)
Sojitz is a major investment and trading firm in Japan developing wide range of businesses globally, including manufacturing, selling, importing, and exporting a variety of products, in addition to providing services and investing in approximately 50 countries around the world through approximately 440 consolidated subsidiaries and affiliated companies located in Japan and overseas. Sojitz was formed out the union of Nichimen and Nissho Iwai Corp. both with long world-wide investment histories of more than 160 years, Sojitz is a publicly listed company on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Hashtag: #skyborn

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Skyborn Renewables

Skyborn Renewables is driving global decarbonisation by accelerating offshore wind energy across the world. We believe offshore wind is a cornerstone of the clean energy transition and an enabler to achieve net-zero targets and ensure energy security and a sustainable energy supply for future generations. Skyborn is an accomplished offshore wind developer and operator with more than 20 years’ experience. Our capabilities cover the entire offshore wind value chain, including greenfield development, engineering and design, procurement, financing, corporate power purchase agreements, construction management and asset management.
For more information, visit

ViewSonic Unveils Pioneering Control Box Designs for Seamless Large Display Adoption at ISE 2025

Expanding the Possibilities of All-in-One LED Displays to Meet Diverse Needs

BREA, Calif., Feb. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of visual solutions, is unveiling the world’s first rack-mount All-in-One control box (LD-SCB-023) at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2025. Seamlessly integrating power and control systems, the LD-SCB-023 boosts energy efficiency and simplifies operation. The company is also introducing the 3rd generation foldable All-in-One LED display (LDS138-151) with a patent-pending design. Emphasizing integration, efficiency, and adaptability, these advanced solutions meet the growing demand for impactful large-scale presentations across diverse industries. 

LDC series with rack-mount All-in-One control box delivers operational and energy efficiency in ProAV settings.
LDC series with rack-mount All-in-One control box delivers operational and energy efficiency in ProAV settings.

“ViewSonic is breaking new ground in LED display adoption by solving challenges related to complex installation, limited accessibility, and extensive maintenance,” said Dean Tsai, General Manager of Projector & LED Display Business Unit at ViewSonic. “Our user-centric innovations, including the pioneering rack-mount All-in-One control box and upgraded foldable displays, redefine adaptability in LED display technology. By expanding the all-in-one core competence, we streamline installation, simplify operation, and enhance durability. These advancements reflect our commitment to empower businesses to fully leverage LED displays for effective communication and branding.”

Innovative Solutions for Maximum Adaptability

Standard All-in-One LED displays often face adaptability limitations, particularly in display configuration flexibility, while their standalone, rectangular control boxes can be difficult to integrate into existing AV infrastructures. To address these issues, ViewSonic launched the Customizable All-in-One LED displays (LDC Series) last year, combining customizable sizing and shaping capabilities with the simplicity of all-in-one integration.

Rack-mount All-in-One control box (LD-SCB-023) product image
Rack-mount All-in-One control box (LD-SCB-023) product image

Now, integrated with the new LD-SCB-023, the LDC Series enhances IT operations with centralized connectivity and control, delivering a seamless and flexible solution for modern ProAV settings. Designed to integrate into standard rack cabinets, the compact 4U rack-mountable design houses both power and control modules, eliminating the need for additional power distribution setup and simplifying installation. This reduces electricians’ efforts and costs, while the integrated power on/off functionality enhances power management, improving energy efficiency and lowering operational overhead.

Evolving Refinement for Innovation

For spaces where interior renovation is impractical or undesired, ViewSonic introduces the foldable LDS138-151. This 138-inch LED display comes pre-assembled, enabling a hassle-free 10-minute setup and removing the need for wall-mounted installation. Unlike its predecessor, which had the control box attached to the screen, the upgraded design integrates the control box directly into the motorized floor stand. This delivers a 99% screen-to-body ratio with a frameless layout and streamlined cable management for neat routing and enhanced public presentations.  

LDS138-151 provides swift deployment for immersive presentation in meeting rooms.
LDS138-151 provides swift deployment for immersive presentation in meeting rooms.

The LDS138-151 offers durability and flexibility with its foldable, mobile design, allowing easy relocation via large passenger elevators. This maximizes return on investment (ROI) by enabling deployment across multiple floors and rooms in environments such as corporate training rooms, educational assembly halls, and hospitality venues. To ensure long-lasting reliability and minimize IT maintenance concerns, the display incorporates Glue-on-Board (GOB) technology, offering resistance to dust, moisture, and physical impacts. This makes it ideal for high-traffic settings where people frequently approach or move around the display.

At ISE 2025, ViewSonic will showcase a comprehensive lineup of its All-in-One LED display solutions. Attendees can experience the upgraded foldable display firsthand and explore its practical applications. The booth will also feature an irregular-format LDC display positioned prominently at the top, playing engaging multimedia content to demonstrate its dynamic capabilities. The 163-inch LDM Series will also be featured. Designed with GOB protection, a pre-configured 16:9 format, and a detachable control box with built-in speakers, it is an ideal solution for spaces like meeting rooms that require audiovisual performance and instant functionality. 

ViewSonic at ISE 2025 

Location: Booth #2Q200, Hall 2, Fira Barcelona Gran Via, Barcelona, Spain 

Dates and Times: 

  • February 4th – February 6th, 2025: 10:00 am6:00 pm
  • February 7th, 2025: 10:00 am4:00 pm

To experience ViewSonic’s innovative visual solutions, click here to reserve a booth tour. 

About ViewSonic 

Founded in 1987 in California, ViewSonic is a leading global visual solutions provider with a presence in over 100 countries. The company leverages over 35 years of expertise in visual technology to deliver a comprehensive portfolio of hardware, software, content, and services. ViewSonic offers a wide range of products, with screen sizes spanning from 5 inches to a massive 760 inches. This includes interactive displays, large format displays, LED displays, pen displays, monitors, projectors, SaaS, AI services, interactive content, and more. This innovative ecosystem empowers education, workplaces, and individuals to foster creativity, collaboration, and seamless learning. ViewSonic focuses on designing products that deliver optimal performance and customer satisfaction while integrating sustainable production practices and upholding comprehensive environmental, social, and governance standards. The company’s goal is to enable customers to “See the Difference”. Learn more at www.viewsonic.com

Authorities Arrest Nine Suspects in Bolikhamxay Drug Raid

Authorities Arrest Nine Suspects in Bolikhamxay Drug Raid

Police have arrested eight Thai nationals and one Lao national for their alleged involvement in an extensive drug trafficking operation following an investigation that spanned several weeks.

Japan Winter Dreams: Club Med Launches Early Bird Bookings for Winter 2026, Offering Up to 35% Savings

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, Feb. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As global interest in distinctive winter travel experiences intensifies, Hokkaido, Japan, has solidified its reputation as a leading destination. With its breathtaking natural landscapes draped in a blanket of pristine snow and unique cultural experiences, Hokkaido promises to captivate all who venture there, from thrill-seeking adventurers to families seeking unique travel experiences.

Japan Winter Dreams: Club Med Launches Early Bird Bookings for Winter 2026, Offering Up to 35% Savings
Japan Winter Dreams: Club Med Launches Early Bird Bookings for Winter 2026, Offering Up to 35% Savings

Boasting four resorts located in Hokkaido, Club Med – a pioneer in all-inclusive holidays – is a compelling choice with a wide having capabilities to satisfy every need and preference. Notably, Club Med invites travelers to begin planning their 2026 Hokkaido winter exploration with the launch of its early bird booking period. From now until June 17, 2025, guests can secure their preferred accommodations and unlock savings of up to 35% on stays commencing in December 2025.

Club Med Kiroro Grand and Kiroro Peak
Club Med presents various avenues for experiencing Hokkaido’s winter allure, with resorts tailored to diverse travel preferences. Situated in the scenic Kiroro region, Club Med Kiroro Grand and Kiroro Peak offer distinct yet complementary experiences. With an average of 21 meters of annual snowfall and a 160-day ski season, Kiroro is a genuine sanctuary for snow sports devotees. Club Med Kiroro Peak, Asia’s first Exclusive Collection mountain resort, delivers a refined experience for couples, while Club Med Kiroro Grand provides a welcoming ambiance for families and those seeking a more spirited winter holiday.

Club Med Sahoro
Club Med Sahoro provides an immersive encounter with authentic Japanese culture and heritage within a welcoming all-inclusive setting. The resort is the perfect family destination in Hokkaido, offering pristine powder snow for skiing and trekking, stunning mountain views, horseback riding, and authentic Japanese experiences like Nabe hot pot.

Club Med Tomamu
At Club Med Tomamu, world-class skiing and snowboarding are enhanced by rich cultural and culinary explorations. The resort’s 1.45 square kilometres of unspoiled mountain terrain accommodate all skill levels. Families can explore unique cultural experiences like taking a dip in Japan’s largest indoor wave pool and indulging in Hokkaido’s local cuisine. The resort also provides exciting activities designed for young children, creating a comfortable environment for little ones while parents explore the slopes or indulge in other resort amenities.

To book your Hokkaido winter escape and enjoy up to 35% off, visit Club Med’s website.

Phon Stupa to Become National Heritage By Year End

Phon Stupa in Savannakhet province

That Phon, a Buddhist stupa in Savannakhet, is set to be designated as a national heritage site by the end of this year, according to Lamkhoun Vorlavong, Head of the provincial Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism.

Hanwha and Baker Hughes Enter into Joint Development Agreement for Ammonia Gas Turbines

  • Hanwha Power Systems and Hanwha Ocean cooperate with global energy technology company Baker Hughes.
  • Leading the decarbonization of the hard-to-abate marine transportation sector through fuel-flexible combustion technology.

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — With the goal of completely carbon-free operation of ships, Hanwha Power Systems and Hanwha Ocean (KRX: 042660) signed a Joint Development and Collaboration Agreement with Baker Hughes (NASDAQ: BKR), a global energy technology company, to design and produce low carbon ammonia gas turbines during the Baker Hughes Annual Meeting 2025 held in Florence, Italy on February 2-4.

Hanwha Group declared its vision for the world’s first fossil fuel-free ship at the Davos Forum held in Switzerland in January last year. Hanwha Group plans to complete the development of liquefied natural gas carriers and container ships using the ammonia gas turbine propulsion system by 2028.

The ammonia gas turbine to be developed through this collaboration will be based upon the proven, small-size world class turbine technology of Baker Hughes, and a newly-developed ammonia combustion system created by PSM, a US-based Hanwha subsidiary. The gas turbine will be capable of 100% ammonia combustion, and dual fuel operation with a natural gas and ammonia blend. It is expected to be a game-changing technology for large ship owners, enabling a completely carbon-free mode of propulsion. In September 2023, Hanwha Power Systems and Hanwha Ocean obtained approval in principle (AIP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) to apply ammonia gas turbines to LNG carriers.

PSM successfully completed an initial high-pressure ammonia combustion test campaign and Baker Hughes completed its initial turbine feasibility studies in 2024. In addition, Hanwha Power Systems signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at Gastech 2024 in Houston, U.S., in September last year with a large liquefied natural gas carrier shipping company in Europe to convert its propulsion system to an ammonia gas turbine based system.

Through this joint development agreement, Hanwha plans to expand technological cooperation with the goal of developing the world’s first completely carbon-free ship and provide innovative solutions that lead the era of fossil fuel elimination.

Executive Director Kim Hyeong-seok, head of Hanwha Power Systems’ Marine Solutions Business Department, said, “The paradigm of switching to lower carbon fuel for ships is the calling of the times, and Hanwha Power Systems will continue to lead the development of innovative technologies for the entire life cycle of eco-friendly ships.”

“This collaborative development of a low-carbon ammonia gas turbine will be a significant turning point in the global shipbuilding and shipping industry, accelerating the transition to eco-friendly fuel propulsion for ships,” said Son Young-chang, vice president and head of Hanwha Ocean’s Product Strategy Technology Institute.

Baker Hughes is a global energy technology company operating in more than 120 countries around the world, with a unique strength in small and medium-sized gas turbine technology. The synergy between the two companies is highly anticipated.

About Hanwha Power Systems

Hanwha Power Systems is a global leader in eco-friendly energy equipment and provides the highest quality products and services by possessing the original technology for the design and production of high-speed rotating equipment. In addition to our 100% oil-free compressor made with our own technology, we have recently been developing solutions for various energy equipment such as sCO2 and hydrogen turbines. In particular, we aim to lead a paradigm shift in the shipping sector by developing technologies to decarbonize the maritime industry.

About Hanwha Ocean

Hanwha Ocean is a leading global company with extensive expertise and experience in the shipbuilding and offshore industry. Boasting the world’s most competitive LNG carriers built with eco-friendly and highly efficient technology, the company has continuously pioneered new businesses since 1973, producing a vast range of vessels, including commercial ships, drill ships, and warships. Hanwha Ocean will be at the forefront of pioneering advanced marine solutions for decarbonization and further expand Hanwha’s green energy ecosystem to create positive, sustainable change worldwide. More information about Hanwha Ocean is available at www.hanwhaocean.com.

Cicada Resort Bali Ubud, Autograph Collection Introduces Unique Balinese Cultural Experiences and Signature Melukat Ritual

BALI, Indonesia, Feb. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Located in Sebatu’s lush natural sanctuary, Cicada Resort Bali Ubud, Autograph Collection offers travelers an immersive cultural journey with curated guest activities and a signature Melukat purification ritual. As part of the Autograph Collection, this resort blends meaningful experiences with the natural beauty and spiritual heritage of Ubud.

Puri Nadi Heated Pool Villa
Puri Nadi Heated Pool Villa

Celebrate Balinese Traditions
Guests are invited to to embark on an enriching journey into the heart of Balinese culture through a thoughtfully curated selection of activities. Embrace the spiritual essence of the island by learning the art of Canang Sari making — a sacred offering crafted from fresh flowers and coconut leaves, symbolizing gratitude and devotion in Balinese Hinduism. Engage in hands-on workshops showcasing traditional Balinese crafts, where skilled artisans share time-honored techniques passed down through generations. For those seeking a deeper connection with the island’s heritage, guided village tours offer an intimate glimpse into rural life, unveiling timeless customs, architectural marvels, and vibrant community practices. These immersive experiences are designed to foster meaningful cultural exchanges, allowing guests to appreciate Bali’s profound traditions and create lasting memories rooted in authenticity.

Signature Melukat Ritual
The highlight of the resort’s cultural offerings is the Melukat purification ceremony, a sacred Balinese water blessing led by a Spiritual Leader from Sebatu Village. Designed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul, this ritual embodies the Cicada Ubud’s signature experience, leaving guests refreshed and spiritually balanced.

How can readers get in touch?
For more information about Cicada Resort Bali Ubud, guests can visit www.cicadaubud.com, or connect with the resort via social media on Facebook and Instagram @cicadaubud.

About Cicada Resort Bali Ubud, Autograph Collection
Where personalized service meets serene comfort in the heart of Bali’s natural beauty, The Resort is more than a place to stay. Its design reflects Bali’s essence, combining wood and stone materials with local craftsmanship to create an inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Culinary enthusiasts will enjoy Tangelo Restaurant, offering both international and local cuisine. For a more casual experience, Verdant Pool Lounge & Bar provides dining with a backdrop of lush greenery. Nestled by Sebatu valley, Pravi Spa combines traditional Balinese treatments with locally sourced natural ingredients to create holistic wellness experiences.