Phnom Penh (FN), Nov. 21 – Cambodian Minister of Mines and Energy Keo Rattanak said that the Ministry of Mines and relevant institutions have been discussing to eliminate the import of electronic devices with excessive energy consumption from the Cambodian market.

Rattanak’s statement was made during a press conference on "Mineral and Energy Policy in Cambodia" on 21 November 2023 at the Sokha Hotel Phnom Penh.

The Minister underlined that the Ministry of Mines and Energy has been working with development partners, including the Asian Development Bank, UNDP, and Australia, to promote energy efficiency policies to protect the environment to meet Cambodia's commitment to global climate change by setting energy saving goals.

"As part of Cambodia's commitment to meeting the country's energy needs and aligning with global objectives, the Ministry of Mines is dedicated to implementing energy-saving measures in the future. Collaborating with relevant institutions, the Ministry aims to cease the importation of high-energy-consuming equipment, such as air conditioners and refrigerators, in order to enhance energy efficiency and contribute to the achievement of our energy conservation goals in Cambodia and beyond,” the minister added.

On the occasion, the minister said that Cambodia's objective between 2023 and 2030 is to achieve substantial energy savings amounting to nearly 2,000 megawatts. The hope is that through collective efforts in electricity conservation during this period, there may be no necessity to construct new factories to generate additional 2,000 megawatts in order to mitigate environmental impact. The overarching aim is to harmonize development with minimal environmental consequences, underscoring that Cambodia's ability to meet its needs without adverse effects on the environment is a highly desirable outcome.

Minister Rattanak highlighted the Royal Government's plan from 2023-2030, which seeks to create a movement encouraging public understanding and participation in power saving.
=FRESH NEWS