LAOBIC

LAOBIC Developing a National Scheme and Conduct of Feasibility Studies on the Implementation of Decentralised Energy System using Biomass and/or Indigenous Coal as Fuel in Lao PDR

Context

Lao PDR has an installed electrical capacity of around 600 MWe, with a theoretical potential to implement hydro power alone of about 26,500 MWe. However, a large portion of the population is not benefiting from this resource as only 42% of households in Lao PDR are electrified.
The Government of Lao PDR (GOL) has committed itself to increasing this to 90% by 2020, 70 % by 2010 and 45% by 2005.
In order to meet its target, the government commits to develop and implement power resources and systems that are environmentally friendly such as Hydro, Clean Coal, Renewable, Hybrid Systems and Cogeneration.

Objectives

The project aims to promote the use of biomass and/or indigenous coal in decentralised power plants in Lao PDR. This is done by developing a national scheme on its development and implementation, establishing the nationwide potential, and conduct of feasibility studies. For projects that are found to be viable, project development guides and market investment pack will be prepared to encourage potential investors and developers to realise their implementation.

Description of tasks

 Countrywide assessment on the availability of biomass and indigenous coal as fuel
 Review of proven biomass/coal power generation technologies
 Conduct of site-specific feasibility studies
 Producing a Project Implementation Guide and Market Investment Pack for every feasible project

Expected results

 Possession of comprehensive data related to the availability of biomass and coal resources
 Better knowledge of the technologies available and appropriate for biomass and coal
 Greater understanding of the feasibilities of projects using biomass and coal as fuel
 Greater awareness of Private sector in the energy industry about business opportunities as feasible projects are identified and packaged for possible implementation

Partners

Equipe Régionale Biomasse Energie (ERBE asbl) - Belgium, Ministry of Industry and Craft / Department of Electricity - Laos

CRAW off coordinator

Vazzan TIRANGKURA
Asian Institute of Technology
Energy Building, Rm ET234, P.O. Box4,
Klong Luang, Pathumthani 12120
Thailand
Tél : +662 524 8303
Fax : +662 524 5396
E-mail : vazzan.tirangkura@cogen3.net

Funding

• European Commission