KBank offers Bt3-bn loan facility to Laos' state power enterprise

KBank offers Bt3-bn loan facility to Laos' state power enterprise

KASIKORNBANK has extended Bt3 billion in a syndicated loan to Laos' state
power enterprise to finance the enhancement of its electricity grid and
expansion into the country's rural areas, as well as power exports to
adjacent countries.

The move marks KBank's growing role in public-utility development in
Thailand's neighbouring countries, where there is vast room for improvement.

Senior executive vice president Patchara Samalapa said KBank was aware of
the economic opportunities in Laos, where public-utility development is
needed to serve its rapid expansion. Laos stands out as one of Asean's major
producers and exporters of electricity.

This makes the building of related infrastructure an important step towards
the country's power-industry advancement. Amid these developments, KBank
says it has played a crucial role in providing financial advisory services
and facilities to many Laotian power projects.

Recently, KBank and Kasikornthai Bank Ltd in Laos jointly offered
Electricite du Laos (EDL) an US$85-million (Bt3 billion) syndicated loan, of
which $77.5 million was granted by KBank and the remaining $7.5 million by
the bank's locally incorporated institution in Laos.

The seven-year loan facilities will be used to improve electricity-system
infrastructure, such as electrical transmission cables and substation
projects, and to expand power grids into rural areas.

According to Boun Oum Syvanhpheng, EDL managing director, the cooperation
with KBank is in line with the state enterprise's vision of sustainable
power management that promotes extensive coverage of electricity utilisation
and connectivity in an eco-friendly manner.

This financial support is truly beneficial for both Lao and Thailand in
terms of power security, international investment and strengthened mutual
ties, Boun said.

Patchara added that KBank was delighted to take part in the progress of
Laos' state power enterprise into a leading international entity for its
sustainable growth.

Given the proficiency, experience and professionalism of the state
enterprise's management and staff, EDL's project administration is expected
to be undertaken smoothly and successfully, he said.

"This loan extension is part of KBank's policy to participate in our
neighbouring countries' economic development, together with the bank's
support to Thai operators investing in Laos."

As a state enterprise wholly owned by the Ministry of Energy and Mines, EDL
has produced and distributed electricity for more than 57 years. It owns and
manages assets related to power generation and transmission cables,
electricity distribution to consumers, and the country's power imports and
exports.

In operating its power business, EDL says it promotes the nation's economic
and social development by supplying sufficient power throughout the country
at a reasonable cost, while placing great significance on environmental and
social responsibility.

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John Diecker
APT Consulting Group Co., Ltd.

www.aptthailand.com