Phnom penh: Cambodia is accelerating its national energy transition with an official target to source at least 70 percent of its domestic electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, renewable energy sources already account for more than 63 percent of Cambodia's domestic installed power capacity, led by hydropower and solar, as stated by H.E. Keo Rottanak, Minister of Mines and Energy. He conveyed this in a recorded video at the Clean Energy Week 2026 held on September 15. The Ministry is working on enhancing this generation with the necessary storage and flexibility to ensure reliability. Cambodian companies are expected to deliver more than 1,100 MW of solar power in a single cluster by the end of the year, complemented by 500 MW of battery storage, as outlined by the Minister.
The Asian Development Bank has approved financing for a significant 250 MW /500 MWh battery system in Kampong Chhnang province. In addition, construction of the 1,000 MW Upper Tatay Pumped Storage project has commenced. 'Together, more renewable generation and the storage to firm it will help Cambodia reach at least 70 percent renewable energy by 2030 while keeping supply reliable,' H.E. Keo Rottanak stated.
The Ministry of Mines and Energy highlighted that the expansion of clean generation is driven by both economic strategy and climate action. Investors and international buyers are increasingly scrutinizing the reliability, cost, and carbon intensity of electricity across their operations and supply chains. 'As reliable, cleaner electricity reaches further into the economy, it can create a wider industrial opportunity,' he added.
Australia has played a foundational role as a sponsor of Clean Energy Week since its inception in 2018, supporting Cambodia's pursuit of a more sustainable, reliable, and resilient energy future. As Cambodia progresses in its clean energy transition, Australia collaborates with the government, industry, and development partners to enhance energy planning, expand green finance access, and create inclusive pathways to careers in the clean energy sector, as stated by H.E. Derek Yip, Australian Ambassador. 'Cambodia has the opportunity to be a beacon for renewable energy - and clean energy could be key to a more secure, resilient future,' he remarked at the summit.