On June 30, 2025, construction began on the Chinese section of the China-Laos 500-kV power interconnection project, marking another significant step in bilateral cooperation following the successful China-Laos Railway. The project, managed by Yunnan Power Grid Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of China Southern Power Grid Co., Ltd. (CSG), involves building a 145-kilometer, 500-kV transmission line from the Dai Autonomous Prefecture of Xishuangbanna in Yunnan Province to Laos, alongside the expansion of a 500-kV transformer substation in the same region.

The initiative is a cornerstone of a broader plan to strengthen ties between China and Laos, fostering sustainable energy collaboration. “This project will enhance energy connectivity and support the shared goals of both nations,” said a representative from CSG. Completion and operational launch are scheduled for 2026, promising to deliver substantial benefits for both countries.

Upon completion, the interconnection is expected to enable a mutual power exchange capacity of 1.5 million kilowatts, facilitating the transfer of approximately 3 billion kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually. This will support reliable energy access and promote the use of sustainable power sources across the region. “The project reflects our commitment to advancing clean energy solutions and deepening regional partnerships,” the CSG representative added.

The Lao section of the project began construction on February 26, 2025, with a ceremony held in Vientiane. This portion is being developed by Electricite du Laos Transmission Company Limited, ensuring coordinated progress on both sides of the border. The combined efforts aim to create a robust energy network, enhancing efficiency and sustainability.

The China-Laos power interconnection project builds on the success of prior collaborative efforts, such as the railway, and underscores a shared commitment to infrastructure development. By leveraging advanced engineering and clean energy technologies, the project aims to meet growing energy demands while reducing environmental impact. The transmission line and substation upgrades are designed to ensure long-term reliability and support economic growth in both nations.

This initiative highlights the importance of cross-border cooperation in addressing energy needs. With construction now underway, the project is poised to strengthen energy infrastructure, promote clean electricity, and foster closer economic ties between China and Laos by 2026.

by en.people.cn