Cambodia Investment Review
Royal Group’s 900-megawatt liquefied natural gas power plant in Koh Kong province is scheduled to begin phased operations from late 2026, adding electricity capacity as Cambodia seeks to strengthen energy security and attract industrial investment.
The project, valued at more than $1 billion, is being developed in Thma Sa commune, Botum Sakor district, alongside a special economic zone intended to accommodate manufacturing, industrial businesses and related services.
The Ministry of Mines and Energy has outlined a two-stage commissioning schedule, with an initial 450MW targeted for the end of 2026 and a further 450MW in 2027. Royal Group is the investor and developer, with technology collaboration involving Japan’s Mitsubishi and China’s Dongfang Electric.
Expanding Power Supply to Support Industry
Construction began in late 2024. Once fully operational, the plant is expected to increase domestic electricity generation, reduce reliance on imported power and support the stability of Cambodia’s national grid.
Read More: Royal Group of Companies Unveils Cambodia’s Largest Gas-Powered Plant to Date
Unlike solar generation, gas-fired capacity can supply electricity around the clock, providing a potential complement to renewable energy sources as demand grows.
Bou Chanphirou, Director General of the Insurance Regulator of Cambodia, said during a site visit that the power plant and special economic zone were expected to strengthen energy security, generate employment and support Koh Kong’s economic development, according to the supplied report.
The investment case extends beyond electricity production. Combining additional power supply with an industrial zone could help attract businesses seeking a base on Cambodia’s coast, although the scale of investment will depend on companies committing to establish operations.
Special Economic Zone Targets Manufacturing Investment
The planned special economic zone is intended to serve domestic and international investors across manufacturing, industry and supporting services.
Its development alongside the power plant could broaden economic activity in Botum Sakor by bringing together energy infrastructure, industrial facilities and demand for local suppliers.
The projects are also expected to support improvements in roads, water supply, electricity connections and transport services, with potential benefits for surrounding communities.
However, the supplied update did not identify committed industrial tenants, quantify expected investment in the zone or provide a separate operating timetable for it.
Employment and Local Business Opportunities
Construction and subsequent plant operations are expected to require engineers, gas-system technicians, welders, electricians, heavy machinery operators and construction workers.
Additional roles are anticipated in administration, accounting, warehouse management, occupational safety and interpretation.
The workforce could also increase demand for rental housing, accommodation, restaurants, retail and transport, creating opportunities for businesses in Botum Sakor and neighbouring areas.
Recruitment details, including position numbers, application dates and qualifications, will be announced by the companies responsible. Job seekers can monitor Royal Group’s official channels, its contractors and the National Employment Agency.
For Koh Kong, the immediate milestone is the first generating unit’s targeted commissioning later this year. The wider economic benefits will depend on the subsequent rollout of power capacity, industrial tenants and supporting infrastructure.
