Empowering Rural Communities: GOV’t Promotes Small-Scale Renewable Energy Solutions

• Sommana Yan
• 18 May 2023
• Local News
• 1804 Views

The Ministry of Rural Development has taken a proactive stance in addressing the energy needs of remote rural areas by advocating the use of small-scale renewable energy sources, particularly solar and biogas systems.

Recognizing the significance of energy accessibility in rural development, the Cambodian government has set ambitious targets for electrification, aiming to provide electricity to all villages by 2020 and ensure that at least 70% of homes nationwide have access to reliable power by 2030.

As part of its comprehensive strategy, the government has established an energy mix target of 35% from coal, 55% from hydropower, and 10% from renewable energy sources.

To accomplish this vision and cater to underprivileged households and communities without electricity, the Ministry of Rural Development has released a technical manual. This manual serves as a valuable resource, equipping stakeholders in the field of small-scale power supply with essential knowledge and practical tools to facilitate the deployment of energy-efficient solutions.

Embracing renewable energy for electricity generation offers numerous benefits. According to the manual, the use of renewable energy to generate electricity provides many benefits, including:

1). reasonable and sustainable pricing,

2). reduced reliance on fossil fuels,

3). a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2), and

4). transitioning to cleaner energy sources enhances air quality, safeguarding human health and mitigating the prevalence of chronic diseases such as bronchitis and cardiovascular ailments.

This informative booklet not only underscores the importance of renewable energy but also guides stakeholders in designing renewable energy supply programs for rural water systems, public lighting infrastructure, and solar-powered road networks. It represents a significant stride towards meeting the energy needs of individuals residing in remote rural areas where access to energy remains scarce.

• Energy and Environment