Electricians work on an electric pole in Preah Sihanouk province. Hong Menea
Electricity Authority of Cambodia (EAC) has announced that the price of electricity in 2024 will remain the same, although there will be some revision to the terms and conditions, as well as infrastructure. These changes will not affect consumers.
EAC chairman Yim Viseth recently released an announcement addressed to the electricity users of the 342 private electricity substations throughout the country.
He said that for now, those who also use solar power will have to pay the same price as this year. The EAC will carry out an evaluation into fair compensation for them. Following the evaluation, a compensation price will be set.
Viseth explained that the price list will be submitted to relevant state institutions, as well as local communities and electricity users, for discussions until January 15.
“After January 15, the price list will be regarded to have undergone the consultation process. The EAC will review and approve the list based on the Kingdom’s laws on electricity,” he said in the notice.
He urged all stakeholders to take part in the consultation process, and communicate with the EDC so it could ensure fairness between users and suppliers.
Hong Vanak, an economist at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said that setting a clear price for electricity as well as accepting comments and requests from various stakeholders – including the public – is good practice, as it ensures transparency and efficiency in the electricity supply.
“As we all know, roads, water and electricity are the most significant parts of infrastructure, and the backbone of the national economy. We have all seen the government’s efforts to build a strong electricity network, especially the construction of additional hydro dams to meet public demand. This should be appreciated” he added.
He noted that the government recently decided to reduce electricity prices for the agriculture, manufacturing, commerce and tourism sectors, in order to increase production and boost tourism activities. This move was aimed at the post-Covid-19 recovery, although the Russia-Ukraine war continues to have an impact on many countries.
Minister of Mines and Energy Keo Rattanak recently announced that the government provided capital of more than $100 million each year for the operations Electricity of Cambodia (EDC).
“Currently, electricity is at the preferential price of 380 riel, 480 riel, or 610 riel per kilowatt-hour (kWh). 380 riel per kWh applies to low and middle-income families. 480 riel is for agricultural use from 9pm to 7am, while 610 riel per kWh applies to schools, hospitals and health centres in rural areas.
