Bangkok: Thailand has been distributing electricity to Cambodia at eight main border points across five provinces, supplying a total of 33.65 megawatts. The largest allocation is directed to Poipet, a notable casino area. The Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) has maintained the supply of electricity, pending the resolution from the National Legislative Assembly (NLA).
According to Thai News Agency, the electricity distribution is based on an agreement between the Thai and Cambodian governments. The agreement has facilitated the consistent sale of electricity, predominantly to Poipet District in Banteay Meanchey Province, where 20 megawatts are transmitted through Ban Khlong Luek in Aranyaprathet District, Sa Kaeo Province. Additional electricity is distributed via border crossings in Surin, Chanthaburi, and Trat Provinces. This ongoing cooperation supports economic activities and supplies the population in various Cambodian provinces, including Poipet, Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Oddar Meanchey, and Koh Kong.
Despite the current fragility in Thai-Cambodian border relations, Cambodian Minister of Mines and Energy, Mr. Keo Ratanak, has clarified that Cambodia does not currently import electricity from Thailand for its national grid, asserting the country’s sufficiency in power supply for domestic needs. Nevertheless, the PEA remains committed to following government policy and is poised to adjust its operations in response to any resolutions from the National Security Council (NSC).
In an analysis by Lt. Col. Nuansom Charoenwong from the Army College, it was emphasized that border checkpoints are significant not only for trade but also for geopolitical competition and regional security. Effective border strategies are essential, involving economic diversification, enhanced intelligence and border control, and collaboration with neighboring countries. The integration of economic, financial, and security data is recommended to control illegal activities and support sustainable border trade. Lt. Col. Charoenwong advocates a shift from ‘blockade’ policies to ‘strategic persuasion,’ utilizing economic, diplomatic, and security measures to protect national interests.