Energy demand is rising as Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) countries – who enjoy cultural similarities and economic complementarities – have maintained impressive economic growth over the past two decades. This trend will continue, especially given the increased urbanization in the GMS. By some estimates, it is expected to triple between 2012 to 2025 nearly. Innovative energy solutions and cross-border power grid interconnection are crucial for GMS countries to address this surging demand. Regional cooperation in energy distribution, infrastructure, and cross-border interconnection will ensure efficient energy distribution to fuel regional economic growth.

It is an established knowledge that increased power cooperation and grid interconnections could promote leveraging renewable energy resources, provide energy security and improve reliable and affordable energy access. As such, it can benefit by attracting more investments and job creation which could enhance the well-being of society and the country’s economic growth.

China Southern Power Grid Co., Ltd. (CSG) and Mekong Institute (MI) reaffirmed the commitment to greater power interconnection and energy transition in the GMS by renewing the partnership in 2022. The CSG-MI Partnership will see further broader cooperation coverage. Beginning in 2015, The cooperation has been successfully facilitating twelve bilateral energy agreements, linking GMS policy leaders with international energy experts, and empowering 410 “power fellows” to advocate clean power connectivity across the region. The cooperation automated power distribution in Viet Nam and enhanced the power trading in the GMS at an impact level.

The deployed activities for the next phase of 2022-2025 will strengthen the capacities of those in the energy field and broaden cooperation by enhancing multi-stakeholder engagement for sustainable and equitable clean energy development and practices.