PHNOM PENH – Clean energy in Cambodia accounts for 62 percent of the national grid, making it the second-highest in ASEAN after Laos, says Mines and Energy Minister Keo Rottanak.

“With such a high proportion of clean energy, Cambodia has already exceeded the ASEAN clean energy target of 40 percent for 2030–2035,” Rottanak said on the sidelines of the 2025 World Green & Sustainability Summit on October 30.

“Renewable sources such as hydropower, solar energy and biomass contribute to such a higher percentage.”

During the recent 43rd ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Rottanak said ministers from all ASEAN member states set goals of 40 percent clean energy by 2030–2035. 

In ASEAN, 60–70 percent of electricity in countries other than Laos and Cambodia comes from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas, Rottanak added. 

In 2023, Laos relied heavily on low-carbon sources, with about 77 percent of its electricity generated from clean energy, almost entirely from hydropower. 

In Vietnam, 44 percent of electricity was generated from low-carbon sources in 2024, and the country aims for 47 percent renewable electricity by 2030. Between 2024 and 2025, low-carbon sources accounted for 25 percent of the Philippines’ electricity generation.

Meanwhile, Brunei’s energy mix for electricity generation is dominated by fossil fuels, which made up nearly 99.9 percent of power generation in 2020.

Rottanak reiterated the government’s ambition to reach a 70 percent clean energy target by 2030, contributing to a sustainable world and national benefits.

“Green energy could attract new investments, as industries, tourists and local residents favor sustainable energy, while also creating job opportunities for the younger generation,” Rottanak said.

He affirmed Cambodia’s commitment to helping ASEAN achieve its decarbonization goals, while stressing the need for continued coordination on regulatory, technical and financing measures with ASEAN partners.

Acknowledging that financing remains one of the most challenging aspects of the transition, he spoke of the importance of creating opportunities for the private sector specialists in technology. 

Regarding air pollution, Rottanak said Cambodia has lower levels as the country does not have heavy industries. 

“The country never temporarily closes schools due to toxic smoke, as air quality remains below emergency levels,” he added.

In September 2024, the government approved 23 clean energy projects worth $5.79 billion for 2024–2029, aiming to address energy shortages. These projects will help the country achieve its 70 percent clean energy target by 2030.

Held under the theme “Shaping the Future of Sustainability & Building a Sustainable World,” the annual summit brought together government, business, academic and think tank leaders to advance green growth for a more sustainable, inclusive and cleaner world.

Rottanak reaffirmed that the suspension of fuel and gas imports from Thailand has had no negative impact on Cambodia. 

“The country can still supply fuel based on public demand, and prices remain stable nationwide,” he said.