ASEAN Power Grid Key to Long-Term Energy Security, Says Cambodian Energy Minister

PHNOM PENH, June 12, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia views the proposed ASEAN Power Grid as a cornerstone of long-term energy security and regional resilience, Minister of Mines and Energy Keo Rottanak said Thursday.

Speaking to Channel News Asia, Rottanak stressed that cross-border electricity trade is becoming increasingly vital as Cambodia expands renewable energy capacity and reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels.

“One of the pillars of energy policy is resilience, and we see that a resilient domestic grid is enhanced when we have interconnection,” he said.

Cambodia currently sources nearly 64 percent of its installed power capacity from renewable energy and aims to raise that share to at least 70 percent by 2030 — well above ASEAN’s regional target of 45 percent.

Rottanak said a connected ASEAN power grid would allow member states to transmit clean electricity across borders, enabling more efficient access to renewable energy and reducing dependence on imported fuels.

Cambodia has already strengthened power connectivity with neighboring countries, importing electricity from Laos and Vietnam to bolster grid reliability and energy security.

The minister noted that Cambodia’s growing renewable sector has helped shield the electricity system from recent global energy market disruptions, including risks linked to tensions affecting the Strait of Hormuz.

To support its clean energy transition, Cambodia is investing in major projects such as the nearly US$1 billion Upper Tatay Pumped Storage Hydropower Project and a utility-scale battery storage system backed by the Asian Development Bank.

He added that the government has also cut fuel import duties and taxes to protect households and businesses from rising oil and gas prices while promoting greater adoption of electric appliances.

According to Rottanak, regional power interconnection combined with renewable energy development will be essential to ensuring a more secure, affordable, and sustainable energy future for Cambodia and ASEAN.