Cambodia introduces energy-saving measures amid global fuel surge

PHNOM PENH, March 22, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has rolled out nationwide energy-saving measures to curb fuel and electricity use as global prices climb on the back of Middle East conflicts, officials said Saturday.

A government circular warned that disruptions to oil supply chains have driven up fuel costs, with knock-on effects for electricity production. Fuel remains a key input in Cambodia’s power generation, though authorities stressed supplies are stable for now, ensuring economic activity and public services continue uninterrupted.

To ease cost pressures, ministries and public institutions at all levels have been ordered to adopt strict conservation practices. The Ministry of Economy and Finance will review public spending and tighten controls on fuel use and official travel, while ministries are urged to cut non-essential trips and move meetings online.

The Ministry of Interior will direct local authorities to improve traffic management during peak hours and major events to reduce fuel wasted in congestion. The Ministry of Mines and Energy will issue guidelines on efficient electricity use and work with the Ministry of Information on nationwide awareness campaigns.

Government offices must optimize daily electricity consumption, and local administrations will coordinate with Electricité du Cambodge to improve public lighting efficiency.

Officials called for collective responsibility across institutions to reduce energy use, saying the measures aim to ease budgetary strain, maintain energy stability and safeguard economic resilience amid global uncertainty.