Vientiane, Lao PDR – On November 28, 2024, key resource persons at the Mekong Institute’s (MI) event titled “Powering the Future: Tech-Driven Energy Solutions in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS)” advocated for a unified power system across the region. This gathering, held in Vientiane, Lao PDR, brought together delegates from energy ministries, government agencies, power utilities, academic institutions, and research organizations from the six Lancang-Mekong countries. The discussion focused on addressing the complementary energy development needs of these nations through an integrated approach to tackle the climate crisis and enhance regional energy security. The event was a collaboration between MI and China Southern Power Grid Lancang-Mekong Energy Consulting (Guangdong) Co., Ltd. (MECC), with Yunnan Power Grid Co., Ltd. (YNPG) as a co-organizer.
MI Executive Director, Mr. Suriyan Vichitlekarn, encouraged the continued adoption of advanced technologies to enhance energy efficiency and strengthen energy infrastructure. Following that point, he referred to the Eighth GMS Summit, which highlighted innovation-driven development with the energy sector identified as a priority area. He mentioned the GMS Energy Program’s strengthened collaboration with ASEAN and development partners, including initiatives such as the ASEAN Power Grid and the GMS Energy Transition Task Force. He also discussed the forthcoming GMS Energy Sector Strategy 2024–2030, which will define strategic priorities for achieving a secure and green energy future. To complement these efforts, he highlighted the GMS Digitalization Action Plan (2025–2027), emphasizing its focus on inclusive digital transformation to improve lives and ensure that no one is left behind.
Mr. Wang Dada, President of the Yunnan Electric Power Research Institute, flagged the rising electricity consumption in the GMS due to rapid economic growth and increasing demand from a large population. Alongside this growth, the region faces challenges such as weak grid structures and limited distribution network coverage. Addressing the concerns, Mr. Dada stressed the critical importance of the next decade for regional energy transition, as the global energy landscape moves toward low-carbon and zero-carbon development. He stated, “Renewable energy will increasingly become the backbone of economic and social development,” underscoring Yunnan’s efforts for cross-border energy integration and creating an interconnected, complementary power system centered on clean energy sources.
Beginning 2025, electricity demand and per capita consumption in the Lancang-Mekong region are projected to grow annually by more than 6%, necessitating advancements in power generation and grid infrastructure. Currently, hydropower is the primary source of energy in the region; however, significant solar energy potential exists, with plans already underway for photovoltaic development. As demand rises, China’s southern region, Viet Nam, and Thailand are expected to face supply gaps, positioning them as major electricity importers. In contrast, Myanmar and Lao PDR, possess abundant hydropower resources but have low domestic demand, making them key exporters. Cambodia is expected to maintain self-sufficiency, while supplementing its needs through cross-border electricity trade with Viet Nam and Thailand.
“Given these complementary energy development needs, establishing a unified Lancang-Mekong electricity market is essential for ensuring energy security and fostering regional cooperation,” Mr. Dada continued during his address. He urged active participation in discussions surrounding the ASEAN Power Grid (APG), consistent with the declarations made at the recent Eight GMS Leaders’ Summit.
In a keynote address, Mr. Tang Lijun, Department Director at YNPG’s Electrical Power Research Institute, echoed the necessity of a unified regional power market. “Building a unified power market in the Lancang-Mekong region is an inevitable way to ensure security of power supply and coordinated regional development,” he stated before sharing YNPG plans to establish the “Lancang-Mekong National Power Technology Innovation Center” that will foster cross-regional innovation.
A panel discussion moderated by Ms. Jian Wang, Program Manager at MI’s Sustainable Energy and Environment (SEE) Department, featured representatives from Cambodia, China, and Thailand sharing insights into tech-driven energy solutions.
- Mr. Dean Rizzetti, Policy Director at the EnergyLab, called for governance and policy alignment to support technology deployment in Cambodia.
- Dr. Lu Hai, Department Director at YNPG’s Electrical Power Research Institute, proposed creating a smart city energy network to address infrastructure challenges and high energy consumption in China.
- Mr. Pipat Chitnumsab, Assistant Director at the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), talked about the country’s approach to managing excess solar energy generation to meet peak demand.
