Cambodia is one of the countries in Southeast Asia, which will be affected the most by climate change. However, the energy demand is rising massively at the same time due to its population, the industrial basis, and wealth and consumption rapidly growing.

In order to achieve both goals - development and sustainability - the Cambodian government has to make fundamental decisions on its future energy system. The energy mix of the future should contain a considerable amount of renewable energy. Currently it is only at a 1-2 percent. Yet, there is a high potential for renewable energy, especially in solar and biomass. In this respect this should come along with a more decentralized production to make energy supply more reliable.

Which aspects of the national energy system have to be transformed? What experiences from other countries should be considered in the process of redesigning the current system? These questions had been at the center of a workshop organized by KAS RECAP and the newly established, independent think tank Enrich institute, based in Phnom Penh. The event brought together decision makers from different Cambodia ministries, local NGOs and interested students. They aimed at discussing the specific challenges of a Cambodian “Energiewende” and at preparing tailor-made proposals.

Toch Sovanna, director for renewable energy in the ministry for mining and energy, opened the workshop. He emphasized the great importance of the Cambodian government towards sustainable energy production and usage. Less dependence on fossil commodity imports and increased usage of existing renewable energy sources are supposed to be prerequisites for further economic development of the country. New technologies as well as the experiences from Europe shall contribute to this ambitious goal.

From a scientific perspective, Dr. Pheakdey Heng, founder and head of the Enrich Institute, explained why the “Energywende” is necessary for Cambodia as well. Especially fossil electricity generation causes a considerable amount of the greenhouse gas emissions. Yet, there is huge potential for wind and solar energy especially on the rural areas. Whilst the of potential of hydroenergy along the Mekong is huge, severe impacts on the water regime of the country and massive ecological implications for the overall region can already be observed. Further, the rapidly growing industrial sector in Cambodia needs to undertake huge efforts tp be more energy efficient. On the other hand access to energy for the rural population is the key to reduce poverty and increase productivity.

On various examples in Europe, Dr. Birgit Wetzel, a free-lance journalist from Berlin, showed how a comprehensive “Energiewende” can be successfully established. She hinted at the fact that readiness to innovation and the usage of local resources had been key factors in Germany´s “Energiewende”. However, Mrs. Wetzel emphasized that there is not one general pathway as each country is supposed to find his own energy mix. In this context nuclear energy is often seen as a a cheap and climate friendly alternative for many developing countries. However, the expert from Germany pointed towards the well-known disadvantages and risks of this technology – and assume that going nuclear cannot be considered a sustainable solution for Cambodia.

To increase the share of renewable energy, an appropriate regulatory frame must be established. Dr. Peter Hefele, director of KAS RECAP, explained what has to be considered and presented numerous examples from Asia and Europe.

Whilst there are interesting and applicable concepts to extend the production and use of renewable energy, many of them are not viable as appropriate financing models are lacking. Christophe Bongars, an international financial consultant and CEO of SustainAsia, showed appropriate pathways for financing new and sustainable energy projects. His case studies impressively showed that direct investments by the government are not necessarily needed. Reliable information, a transparent regulatory framework and successful pilot projects can attract private investors as well.

After the lectures the participants came together in two groups in order to draft recommendations for a future Cambodian energy policy. During intensive discussions they identified several decisive issues for a “Energiewende” in Cambodia.

Cambodian media reported on this event. You can find the article including an interview of Dr. Peter Hefele with Phnom Penh Post under the following link.