GE, EDL sign agreement to develop Laos' hydroelectric power workforce

GE, EDL sign agreement to develop Laos' hydroelectric power workforce

Electricite du Laos and General Electric have signed a memorandum of
understanding to launch joint research and training programs designed to
support the development of Laos' hydroelectric power sector and electric
grid.

With GE assistance, EDL hopes to make Laos a key source of energy generation
in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region by building a
workforce capable of exploiting the country's hydropower potential.

"We believe fresh thinking and a strong 'next generation' workforce are key
factors to help us achieve our priority energy goals -- from providing
affordable, reliable power to more homes nationwide, to developing our
energy export business and the renewable power sector," EDL managing
director Bounoum Syvanpheng said.

Per the memorandum, GE will help EDL:

Design a hydroelectric curriculum;

Provide technical training at its industrial facilities, Laotian hydropower
projects and partner universities;

Develop local leaders via access to GE's corporate training programs; and

Foster access to power in non-connected communities.

"This memorandum with Electricite du Laos is a milestone for GE in Lao PDR
as it enables us to bring our energy insights, expertise and experience to
the country and support important development programs that are key in
achieving future economic growth," said Wouter van Wersch, president and CEO
of GE ASEAN.

EDL's transmission network will also be assessed by GE Energy Consulting,
with expansion and the export of power to neighboring countries as the
ultimate goal.

Laos is home to a number of significant hydropower projects that are
currently being developed, under construction or receiving upgrades, notably
the 1,285-MW Xayaburi, 35-MW Xelanong 2 and 280-MW Theun-Hinboun.

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Ref:
http://www.hydroworld.com/articles/2016/09/ge-edl-sign-agreement-to-develop-
laos-hydroelectric-power-workforce.html

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John Diecker
APT Consulting Group Co., Ltd.

www.aptthailand.com