Cambodia has emerged as a regional leader in clean energy, ranking second in ASEAN and among the least polluting nations globally, according to Energy Minister Keo Rottanak. Speaking at the 2025 World Green & Sustainability Summit in Phnom Penh, Rottanak hailed the country’s rapid transition to renewable power as a model for sustainable development.

 

“Cambodia does not suffer from the smog crises seen elsewhere,” he told reporters, citing the absence of heavy industry and the country’s consistently safe air quality. The Minister credited former Prime Minister Hun Sen for laying the groundwork for green energy expansion, now being accelerated under Prime Minister Hun Manet’s administration.

 

Currently, 62% of Cambodia’s national grid is powered by clean sources such as hydropower, solar, and biomass—placing it just behind Laos in ASEAN rankings. This figure already exceeds the regional clean energy target of 40% by 2030–2035, agreed upon at the recent ASEAN Energy Ministers’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur.

 

Rottanak contrasted Cambodia’s progress with neighbouring countries, where fossil fuels still dominate. “In some cases, 60 to 70 percent of electricity is generated from coal and gas,” he said. “Cambodia’s achievement is all the more remarkable.”

 

Looking ahead, the government aims to push clean energy to 70% of the grid by 2030. The Minister described this goal as part of Cambodia’s broader commitment to global sustainability and carbon neutrality.

 

Beyond environmental benefits, Rottanak emphasised the economic potential of green energy. “Investors, industries, and tourists increasingly favour destinations powered by renewables,” he said. “This transition will create jobs and new opportunities for Cambodia’s youth.”

 

The summit, held at the Shangri-La Hotel under the theme “Shaping the Future of Sustainability,” drew regional attention to Cambodia’s energy strategy. As global pressure mounts to reduce emissions, Cambodia’s clean energy leadership may help redefine its role on the international stage—not just as a tourist destination, but as a green economy in the making.

 

 

-2025-10-31

23 minutes ago, geovalin said:

“Cambodia does not suffer from the smog crises seen elsewhere,”

 

... that's a new one for me ... it seems all the burnings don't count for the cambodian government ...