Cambodia Powers Koh Rong Sanloem with New Electricity Link

Cambodia Powers Koh Rong Sanloem with New Electricity Link

PHNOM PENH, April 12, 2026 — Cambodia has begun supplying electricity to Koh Rong Sanloem through a newly completed transmission line linking it to neighboring Koh Rong, marking a step forward in infrastructure development for the country’s key island tourism destinations.

State utility Electricité du Cambodge (EDC) said the 35-kilovolt power line project, connecting the two islands in Preah Sihanouk province, was completed and officially put into operation on April 11.

The system includes overhead, underground and subsea cables designed to deliver stable electricity to residents and tourism facilities on Koh Rong Sanloem, which has historically relied on diesel generators and limited local supply.

Authorities said the new connection is expected to improve living conditions for local communities and support the growth of tourism infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants and transport services.

Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem, located off Cambodia’s southern coast near Sihanoukville, are among the country’s most popular island destinations, known for white-sand beaches, coral reefs and eco-tourism. Koh Rong is the larger and more developed of the two, while Koh Rong Sanloem is smaller, quieter and widely promoted as a low-impact, nature-focused destination.

Improved electricity access is seen as key to sustainable development on the islands, where tourism has expanded rapidly in recent years.

EDC also urged fishermen and marine operators to exercise caution when navigating near the transmission route to avoid damaging the infrastructure, particularly subsea cables.

Officials say the project forms part of broader efforts to expand reliable energy access across Cambodia, including remote and island communities, as the country continues to modernise its infrastructure and support economic growth.