Laos’ investment promotion website republishes a Convalt announcement dated 29 September 2017. It records letters of intent with General Electric, Cathay United Bank and DigiCollect for a proposed large-scale solar development program.
Complementary development roles
GE was expected to provide electrical equipment, including inverters and substation equipment. Cathay United Bank was expected to assist with project financing, while DigiCollect would undertake technical, environmental and social studies.
A 300 MW development program
The announcement outlined proposed plants of 50 MW in Bolikhamxay and 250 MW in Attapeu, following August 2017 memoranda of understanding. U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, Ambassador Rena Bitter and Lao officials witnessed the partner signing ceremony. The letters set out intended cooperation during development.
Building on regional cooperation
The release estimated the proposed Lao program at $400 million and noted that Convalt, GE and DigiCollect were also working on a 300 MW AC solar development in Myanmar’s Mandalay Region.