Cambodia Defends Hydropower Projects, Denies Forest Clearing Claims

PHNOM PENH, Sept 9, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s government has defended two hydropower projects with a combined capacity of 170 megawatts, rejecting reports alleging forest clearing and logging beyond areas approved by the Royal Government as misleading. The Ministry of Mines and Energy and the Ministry of Environment issued a joint clarification after Radio France Internationale cited a Mongabay article on September 2 raising concerns about the 70MW Stung Russei Chrum Kandal and 100MW Stung Veal Thmor Kambot projects. Officials stated that the developments are vital for strengthening Cambodia’s energy security, reducing reliance on electricity imports, and supporting socio-economic growth. They stressed that the projects are being implemented in line with regulations and environmental and social impact assessments (ESIA), with regular inspections covering construction progress, safety standards, and environmental management. The ministries acknowledged activities such as clearing access roads, preparing timber storage areas, and extracting stone and gravel within the project zones to facilitate reservoir construction and generate state revenue before inundation. However, they countered that Mongabay’s conclusions relied on satellite imagery without fully verifying technical data, maps, and documentation, deeming its interpretation erroneous. Authorities warned that such reporting could create misunderstanding and negative perceptions of hydropower development, which they described as a source of clean energy for Cambodia. They emphasized that both projects remain subject to monitoring to ensure compliance with standards and environmental safeguards. The government called on national and international media to uphold transparency and responsibility when publishing information, stressing that accurate reporting is essential for sustainable energy development while balancing environmental protection and livelihoods.