What is the power transmission system in Lao PDR?

The power transmission system of Lao PDR is divided into two types of transmission lines – one for domestic supply and one for export, where power plants are directly connected to neighbouring countries. Each is not connected to the other within the borders of Lao PDR. The voltage classes are 500 kilovolts (kV), 230 kV, and 115 kV.

How much power does Lao PDR generate a year?

Source: MEM and EDL. In 2021, Lao PDR's power generation was 11,661.14 megawatts (MW), with a generation potential of 58,813.42 gigawatt-hours (GWh) per year (Lao Statistics Bureau, 2022). Figure 3.2 shows Lao PDR's installed power generation capacity and available power generation capacity above 1 MW.

Who operates the 500 kV transmission system in Laos?

The 500-kV and 230-kV transmission systems for domestic supply are mostly operated by Électricité du Laos Transmission Company (EDL-T), and the 115-kV line by Électricité du Laos (EDL). Some sections are operated by other transmission operators.

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.

Is renewable power gaining traction in Laos?

Renewable power generation is slowly gaining traction in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Laos). However, the country of only 8 million people doesn’t receive as much attention as its larger and more powerful fellow Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members, particularly Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.

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.