How many Cambodian households use solar energy?

Approximately one third of a million households, or 8.4% of overall Cambodian households, are currently using off-grid or micro-grid solar (Cambodia Socio-Economic Survey). In 2016, there wasn’t a single solar plant in the country.

Is solar power transforming remote communities in Cambodia?

Solar power is transforming remote communities in Cambodia with affordable, renewable energy and the chance to live more productive lives\. However, hundreds of other villages remain off the grid, and energy experts say Cambodia should be doing more to harness the country’s immense amount of untapped sunlight.

Where are solar power plants located in Cambodia?

Currently, solar power plants providing a total of 160 mW are located in Bavet city, Svay Rieng province, Kampong Speu province, and Kampong Chhnang province. Cambodia’s existing solar power stations are already generating energy and linked to the grids.

Should Cambodia consider floating solar?

Cambodia has significant opportunity to consider using floating solar technology due to its existing hydropower dams. The Mekong Infrastructure Tracker shows that there are four dams – the Lower Sesan 2, Stung Atay, Stung Tatay, and Kamchay dams – which have sizeable reservoirs of over 10sq km. These reservoirs could potentially be used for floating solar installations.

How much does a floating solar project cost in Cambodia?

The cost of a floating solar project in Cambodia is estimated to be approximately $0.045 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). This is significantly cheaper than the cost per kWh for electricity from a new dam or coal plant.

Should Cambodia increase its use of solar energy?

Energy experts suggest that Cambodia should be doing more to harness the country’s immense amount of untapped sunlight as hundreds of villages remain off the grid. Scores of seven solar photovoltaic (PV) projects are in the pipeline for construction and are set to be operational by 2023.