The REAP is a document funded by the World Bank’s Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP) in order to encourage the generation of electricity from renewable energy sources.  The first edition of the document was produced in May 2003 by an international consultant with assistance from government MIME staff and the input of 150 industry stakeholders, both local and foreign, through a series of national workshops over a period of almost three years.

Contents

The REAP document consists of four distinct sections.  Firstly a lengthy discussion of the process employed for the REAP project, and its mission and vision.  Secondly it provides a concise background information on Cambodia’s geography, demography, economy and history.  Then it provides a detailed explanation of the country’s electricity sector.  Thirdly there is a lengthy discussion of the potential opportunities for private investment in the electricity sector.  And lastly it proposes a 10 year program of activities, and a rough estimate of costs, to achieve the aims of the REAP.

Vision and Targets

The REAP envisions an active partnership between public and private sectors to create a favourable environment for investment opportunities in renewable electricity, in particular in hydroelectricity, and to a lesser extent in solar installations. The underlying targets which the REAP sets for the coming decade are:

§         6 MW of electrical supply capacity from Renewable Energy sources;

§         100,000 households served;

§         10,000 solar (PV) home systems;

• The creation of profitable, demand-driven renewable electricity markets

 Current Status

The REAP is not a policy document, and has not as yet been officially accepted by the Government. However a summarised version, which proposes a basic 5 year plan, has been prepared for submission for approval of the Council of Ministers. 

The REAP provides a good summary of the electricity market in Cambodia, and opportunities for development of renewables-based rural electrification.  The process of producing the REAP succeeded in engaging a large number of diverse stakeholders whose participation is essential for the country’s rural electrification plans. 

Downloadable Documents

The final REAP document, as well a wide range of useful reports and presentations on all aspects of renewable energy and rural electrification in Cambodia,  are available for free download from the Reports and Papers section of this website.