Australia Reaffirms Support for Cambodia’s Clean Energy Transition

PHNOM PENH, May 13, 2026 (KPT) — Australia has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Cambodia’s transition toward clean energy, backing the kingdom’s target of achieving 70 percent renewable capacity by 2030 as part of broader efforts to strengthen energy security and sustainable growth, officials said Wednesday.

The Australian Embassy in Phnom Penh said Canberra has supported Cambodia’s clean energy drive for more than a decade, helping advance renewable development and improve resilience amid global energy uncertainty.

“Australia is helping to power sustainable growth and build energy security in an increasingly unpredictable world,” the embassy said.

Cooperation focuses on mobilizing clean energy financing, attracting investment, and drawing on Australian expertise to improve grid stability, strengthen forecasting systems and develop a skilled local workforce. Australia is also supporting agro‑processing and tourism businesses to improve energy efficiency and reduce exposure to volatile fuel prices.

Minister of Mine & Energy Keo Ratanak said recently that more than 63 percent of Cambodia’s electricity generation currently comes from clean sources, including hydropower and solar, with a target of at least 70 percent by 2030.

Cambodia is expanding nationwide electric vehicle charging infrastructure, boosting renewable generation and reducing petroleum dependence across transport, manufacturing and agriculture.

The government is also studying plans to develop its first oil refinery by 2029 to enhance fuel storage capacity and long‑term security. In April, construction began on the $1 billion Upper Tatay Pumped Storage Hydropower Project, Cambodia’s first of its kind, designed to strengthen grid stability and support the clean energy transition.