Phnom Penh PV Energy Storage Policy

Will Cambodia allow rooftop PV?

Cambodia’s Ministry of Mines and Energy has published a document outlining principles to permit the use of rooftop PV. The new policy replaces a monthly capacity fee for rooftop systems, with a tariff calculated based on an intricate formula. Image: Clean Energy Economy Minnesota

Can Cambodia permit rooftop solar power?

At the end of April, the nation's Ministry of Mines and Energy published a document, “ Principles for permitting the use of rooftop solar power in Cambodia ” that outlines new principles to streamline the permitting process of rooftop PV. It proposes the replacement of actual capacity charges with new tariffs and quotas for installations.

Does Cambodia have solar power?

However, considering the country’s historical energy mix, the existing solar capacity appears positive. As of 2011, Cambodia had no solar power plants, and solar energy was not a part of the country’s energy mix. Cambodia’s current installed solar capacity is slightly over 400 MW, but the country is targeting 3.1 GW by 2040.

Is a new solar policy a positive development for Cambodia?

Despite leaving many questions unanswered, Ngo Son sees the new policy as a positive development for solar in Cambodia. This April, the Cambodian government approved five renewable energy projects totaling 520 MW.

Is the new solar tariff a positive development for Cambodia?

Asked whether the new tariff is a positive development for solar in Cambodia, Natharoun Ngo Son, country director at Energy Lab, gave pv magazine an ambivalent answer. “Yes and no. Yes, it is better, because with the capacity charges, first there is a 50% cap, and then the capacity charge applies whether you use your system or not,” said Ngo Son.

How long does it take to install solar power in Cambodia?

“Upon receiving a permit from Electricity Authority Cambodia, the Applicant shall commence [installing] the rooftop solar power within three months from the date of notification,” the document reads. Despite leaving many questions unanswered, Ngo Son sees the new policy as a positive development for solar in Cambodia.