ADB grants $52.72m loan for Cambodia’s grid expansion project

This will strengthen the transmission network for the integration of more RE.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has granted a $52.72m loan for the Grid Expansion Project in Cambodia.

“The project will strengthen the country’s transmission network to integrate more renewable energy into the national grid and help meet rising electricity demand with cleaner, locally generated power,” ADB said.

Cambodia’s electricity generation reached 17.85 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2024 from 8.68 TWh in 2020. Meanwhile, reliance on imported electricity dropped from 3.06 TWh to 1.57 TWh.

The project will build 55 kilometres of 230-kilovolt transmission lines between Pursat and Kampong Chhnang, and upgrade nine substations across the country.

Aligned with Cambodia’s Power Development Master Plan (2022–2040) and the National Energy Efficiency Policy (2022–2030), the project will help reduce transmission losses and enhance energy security.

“By bringing more renewable energy into the grid, Cambodia can power opportunities for its people whilst protecting the environment for generations to come,” said ADB Country Director for Cambodia Jyotsana Varma.