Xekong officials inspect the Monsoon Wind Power project in Dak Cheung district. --Photo Paxason newspaper

Xekong wind farm now more than 80 percent complete

The construction of one of Southeast Asia’s largest wind farms is now 81.71 percent complete, marking significant progress in Laos’ efforts to diversify its energy sources for domestic consumption and export.
The project update was announced during a site visit by Xekong Governor Mr Leklay Sivilay, accompanied by provincial leaders and Dakcheung district officials.
The wind farm is under construction in Dak Cheung district and a part of Sanxay district in Attapeu province, and will have a total installed capacity of 600 megawatts when completed, according a report from Monsoon Wind Power Company Limited.
The construction cost is estimated at more than US$900 million. Work started in April last year and the wind farm is now 81.71 percent complete, with an expected operational start date sometime in 2025.
Each of the 133 turbines is located on a solid and stable foundation, about 22 metres wide and 35 metres deep, with each turbine being 110 metres high.
The project will be the largest wind power farm in Southeast Asia and the first in Laos.
Monsoon Wind Power Company Limited will construct, own and operate the wind power plant and its dedicated 500kV transmission line in Laos’ Xekong and Attapeu provinces.
Under a 25-year power purchase agreement, electricity generated by the project will be sold to Vietnam Electricity (EVN).
Speaking during the site visit, Mr Leklay praised the company, project developer and project construction contractor and instructed them to ensure that the wind farm was beneficial and its construction carried out efficiently, safely, and in compliance with the law.
He also called on them to inform people living in the area about the nature and importance of the wind farm.
“This project is a very important and strategic development for the province. It will be the first wind power project in Laos and the largest in Southeast Asia. Therefore, the construction of this project is hugely significant for the country’s development, both economic and social, as well as creating jobs and helping to tackle poverty in the local area,” Mr Leklay said.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update August 21, 2024)