How much does electricity cost in Laos?

To its credit, state-run electricity company Electricité du Laos (EDL) is trying to encourage more solar power development by offering a tariff rate of USD 0.08 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). That’s higher than the rate for hydropower-generated electricity, which ranges from USD 0.05 to 0.06 per kWh.

How many solar power plants are there in Laos?

However, by the end of last year, only eight solar power projects and four biomass power plants were in operation, with an installed generation capacity of 116 MW, representing just 1% of the country’s total electricity production. As of early 2023, Laos produced power from 76 hydropower dams, with another 43 still under construction.

Why does Laos suffer from energy instability?

However, Laos generally suffers from energy instability because most of its power plants are owned by international businesses and generate electricity for export. It even has two electricity grids, one for exporting power and one for domestic usage.

Does Laos have a power grid?

It even has two electricity grids, one for exporting power and one for domestic usage. Laos relies on hydropower and lignite (brown coal) for most of its power generation, making up 83% and 16% of the mix, respectively.

How will a power distribution improvement project help Laos?

On June 1, 2023, the World Bank approved a Power Distribution Improvement Project to increase the capacity and efficiency of Laos’ domestic electricity grid. The project should also strengthen EDL’s financial management.

Can commercial wind power be developed in Laos?

Commercial wind power capacity, however, could see limited development due to typically low wind speeds. Laos has also struggled to maintain grid integrity, which could cause future grid curtailment as it seeks to develop more renewable energy sources.