Power pylons on the outskirts of Phnom Penh in 2024. Post staff
The Cambodian government plans to introduce a new policy which will prohibit the import of energy-inefficient items, as part of efforts to promote energy conservation.
This policy will be implemented through the establishment of electrical standards, which the government will announce soon, according to Minister of Mines and Energy Keo Rottanak.
During the 2024 annual review and 2025 planning conference of the Electricity Authority of Cambodia, held today, February 3, the minister explained that various devices such as light bulbs and air conditioners – as well as other appliances with high electricity consumption – will be subject to the new standards.
He noted that the new regulations will be enforced by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, which will work the customs and tax departments to halt the importation of energy-wasting devices.
“The government’s goal is to save 1,500 megawatts of electricity by 2030,” he added.
He explained that if both public and private sectors implement electricity-saving measures, there will be no need to build new power plants. The amount represents more than 50 per cent of the Kingdom’s current energy consumption.
The minister highlighted the government's efforts to enhance the electricity supply network by expanding power production projects and improving connectivity to reduce power outages.
Rottanak also directed the Electricity Authority of Cambodia to accelerate the adoption of digital systems, with the goal of 95 per cent of electricity bill payments being made through online banking systems by the end of 2025, while all requests for new connections should be made through the EDC app.
He urged the electricity authority and EDC to improve their customer service response systems by implementing automated solutions, such as using social communication apps rather than relying on manual phone calls from staff.
He also stressed the need to eliminate “unofficial” service charges in the electricity sector, even if such cases are minimal.
“In 2025, we must address any remaining inefficiencies in Cambodia’s electricity supply system. We must eradicate any unofficial service charges that violate regulations. Examples include forcing customers to purchase equipment or cables from specific suppliers and charging excessive connection fees beyond the set guidelines,” he continued.
The minister also reassured the public that the government has no intention of nationalising the electricity sector but will continue working with private partners.
