Cambodia Breaks Ground on $1 Billion Pumped-Storage Power Plant

Cambodia Breaks Ground on $1 Billion Pumped-Storage Power Plant

PHNOM PENH, April 11, 2026 — Cambodia has begun construction of its first pumped-storage hydropower plant, a $1 billion project aimed at strengthening energy security and supporting the country’s transition to clean energy.

The Tatai Leu pumped-storage facility, located in Koh Kong province, was officially launched on April 10 following a year-long feasibility study.

The project is being developed by China National Heavy Machinery Corporation and is expected to take five years to complete, with a planned generation capacity of up to 1,000 megawatts.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin said the project would significantly enhance Cambodia’s power grid, particularly in managing peak electricity demand and ensuring stable supply.

He added that Chinese-backed energy investments have helped increase Cambodia’s national electricity access rate from around 50% in 2010 to nearly 96% today, while boosting the share of clean energy in the country’s energy mix.

Cambodian Mines and Energy Minister Keo Rottanak said the project aligns with Cambodia’s goal of reaching 70% clean energy by 2030.

Pumped-storage hydropower works by storing energy in the form of water at higher elevations and releasing it during peak demand, making it a key technology for stabilizing grids with growing renewable energy capacity.

The Tatai Leu project is among several major infrastructure initiatives backed by China, including the Funan Techo Canal, reflecting deepening economic cooperation between Phnom Penh and Beijing.

Once completed, officials say the plant will play a crucial role in supporting Cambodia’s long-term energy security, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and enabling further economic growth.