On July 21, 2020, Vietnam’s Prime Minister sanctioned the import of electricity from Monsoon project (Lao) into the national grid through a 500kV transmission line, and endorsed an additional line to the Thanh My Station, aligning with Vietnam’s Development Plan VII. The power purchase agreement with Vietnam Electricity Group was finalized on July 12, 2021, targeting commercial operations by late 2025. The inaugural wind turbine in Laos, part of a 133-turbine array with a 600MW capacity, was erected on October 10, 2023. PC1, acting as the Engineering Contractor for the Government of Laos, oversees on-site project components. The third site inspection by PC1 and the Lao Ministry of Energy and Mines occurred on March 25, 2024.
From September 27 to 30, 2023, PC1 proudly represented the Government of Laos in signing the engineering contract to oversee the Monsoon project. Touted as Southeast Asia’s largest wind power initiative, Monsoon boasts a 600 MW capacity with 133 turbines across 1,000 hectares in Laos’s Sekong and Attapeu provinces. Marking Laos’s inaugural foray into wind energy and Southeast Asia’s first transnational wind farm, the project covers 708.28km² at elevations between 1,200 and 1,600 meters. Launched in April 2023, its completion is slated for 2025, with the generated power earmarked for Vietnam over a 25-year agreement. In July 2017, the Laos government nominated the project to Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade, pioneering ASEAN’s cross-border renewable energy exchange.
In the month of November 2023, a pivotal agreement was formalized between PC1 Group and Power China, initiating the 600MW Monsoon Wind Project in Laos PDR, specifically focusing on the “construction of 500kV Overhead T/L” package. This event signifies the commencement of a promising partnership, with the project poised to tap into Laos’ wind energy potential, thereby fostering sustainable growth within the country.
The inauguration of the Monsoon Wind Farm on November 30, 2023, marked a historic moment as Laos’ inaugural venture into wind-generated power began operations. The ceremony, graced by the presence of government dignitaries, investors, and project contributors, celebrated the launch of the 600MW endeavor situated in the Sekong and Attapeu provinces of southern Laos. This strategic project is set to export electricity to Vietnam, enhancing energy security and propelling economic progress in the region.
For Laos and the PC1 Group, the Monsoon Wind Farm stands as a testament to progress, marking PC1’s first successful project execution in the nation. It underscores PC1’s commitment to renewable energy development and its active participation in the international effort to mitigate climate change.