Laos Breaks Ground on $360 Million Hydropower Project for Vietnam Export
(KPL) Laos launched construction of the 124 MW Nam Neun 1 hydropower plant, a key energy export project that will send electricity to Vietnam upon completion in 2028.
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone presided over the groundbreaking ceremony in Nonghet District on April 29, joined by Energy Minister Phoxay Sayasone and Vietnamese contractors from Construction Corporation 47 JSC.
Energy Minister Phoxay emphasized the project's strategic importance, noting it will utilize modern technology while contributing to Laos' economic development and local community improvement.
Project manager Soulixay Bounmanikod assured the dam would meet all technical and environmental standards. Vietnamese contractors pledged to complete construction on schedule while adhering to Lao regulations.
Following the ceremony, the Prime Minister visited nearby rare earth and iron mining sites in Houaphanh Province. He urged operators to:
- Minimize environmental impacts
- Consider building processing facilities to increase export value
- Support local infrastructure development
The hydropower project represents Laos' latest step in developing its energy export sector, with Vietnam remaining its primary electricity customer.