Should Laos rely on hydropower?

At first glance, it would appear that Laos’ overreliance on hydropower would be beneficial in terms of energy independence and a negligible carbon footprint, but challenges remain. On the one hand, hydropower is considered a clean energy source.

Does Laos still need electricity?

But Laos must still rely on electricity imports from Thailand during the dry season, purchasing power at a higher rate than it sells. Electricity supply for domestic consumption currently exceeds demand and is only expected to grow.

How much energy does Laos have?

He said that a total of 7,253 million kWh worth LAK 7,547 billion was also supplied to the domestic market. Laos now has 86 sources of energy with a combined installed capacity of over 10,400MW, with 80 percent generated by hydropower dams. The other sources of power include coal-fired, biomass, and solar power plants.

What is the future of electricity in Laos?

The Ministry of Energy and Mines estimates that demand for electricity in Laos will grow by up to ten percent per year as the country develops. At least 95 percent of households across the country now have access to electricity, with 93 percent of all major provincial capitals and towns now connected to the grid.

How many solar power plants are there in Laos?

However, by the end of last year, only eight solar power projects and four biomass power plants were in operation, with an installed generation capacity of 116 MW, representing just 1% of the country’s total electricity production. As of early 2023, Laos produced power from 76 hydropower dams, with another 43 still under construction.

Why does Laos suffer from energy instability?

However, Laos generally suffers from energy instability because most of its power plants are owned by international businesses and generate electricity for export. It even has two electricity grids, one for exporting power and one for domestic usage.