Statkraft to operate two new hydro projects in Laos

Laotian utility Theun Hinboun Power Company (THPC) has commissioned two new hydro projects that will double its renewable production to 3 TWh annually, it was revealed.

The US$650 million project, which included an expansion of the 220-MW Theun-Hinboun complex and the construction of the new 60-MW Nam Gnouang hydro plant, will be operated and maintained by Norway’s Statkraft.

“The expansion project in Laos is a very good example of how we can exploit large, renewable hydropower resources in combination with sustainable solutions,” Statkraft President and CEO Christian Rynning-Tonnesen said. “With this new power plant, Norweigian hydropower expertise contributes to profitable, environmentally friendly and sustainable investments internationally.”

Also included in the Theun Hinboun project are a new dam and transmission lines.

Statkraft and Thailand’s GMS Power each own 20% of THPC, with the remainder held by Laotian energy company EDL Generation.