EGAT invests in hydropower project in Laos

Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand's subsidiary Egat International (EGATi) has signed the shareholders' agreement for the investment in the Bt27 billion Nam Ngiep 1 hydropower project in Laos.

EGATi will hold a 30 per cent stake in the 289-megawatt power plant, while KPIC Netherlands BV and Lao Holding State Enterprise (LHSE) will own 45 and 25 per cent, respectively.

The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project (NNP1), to generate power from Nam Ngiep River which encompasses three provinces in Laos, is scheduled to commence commercial operations in 2019. The power would be transmitted to Thailand, through Udon Thani province.

The project was first conceived in 2009.

EGAT said that aside from opening up the agency’s investment opportunity in Laos, this will also increase Thailand’s energy security.