Why is Cambodia's energy sector a success story?

Cambodia's energy sector has been a tremendous success story over the last 20 years. From experiencing frequent power cuts and limited regional electricity access in 2004 to a stable grid in the capital, Phnom Penh, and a village electrification rate of over 98%.

How much energy is consumed in Cambodia?

(World Bank 2021) According to the Ministry of Mines and Energy of Cambodia (2020), Cambodia’s Total Final Energy Consumption (TFEC) has increased about 7.2% per year between 2010 and 2018, while the growth rates of commercial energy—such as oil and electricity—were similarly 8.1% and 18.3% per year respectively.

What is the most common source of energy in Cambodia?

In Cambodian households, traditional fuels, mostly firewood, are the most common source of energy (Ferranti et al. 2016; Phoumin et al. 2020; San, Spoann, et al., 2012; San, Sriv, et al., 2012; World Bank, 2018).

Does Cambodia need more energy?

Realistic projections for future energy demand (including renewable energy support and energy efficiency) are in dire need in Cambodia, as mentioned by e.g. Heng and Boyle (2020). In large parts of the Global South, electricity is produced using natural resources on the periphery, and transmitted to cities for the well-off to benefit.

Can solar energy be used intermittently in Cambodia?

However, the intermittent nature of solar energy benefits from robust storage solutions to store excess generation and provide power during low solar output periods, like the dry season. The Cambodian Minister of Mines and Energy, Keo Rattanak, is targeting 70% renewable energy by 2030.

How much does electricity cost in Cambodia?

Cambodia suffers also from one of the highest electricity prices in the region with a price reaching even as high as $1/kWh from private electricity providers (Phoumin & Kimura, 2019, ADB 2018, World Bank, 2018)).