The Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) has called on the private sector and Electricite du Cambodge (EDC) to increase investment in the development of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the country to support EV usage.

Speaking at the annual meeting of the Electricity Authority of Cambodia (EAC) to review activities in 2025 and set objectives for 2026, Keo Rottanak, Minister of Mines and Energy, stated: "We will expand the service of charging electric vehicles across the country through two mechanisms: the framework of private sector investment and investment from Electricite du Cambodge."

Under the private sector investment framework, the EAC has granted 20 licences to private companies to install EV charging stations. In addition, EDC has allocated over US$ 10 million for the development of EV charging infrastructure by 2026, he added.

The minister stated that investment in EV infrastructure would increase the number of charging stations nationwide and support EV users, while encouraging further adoption of EVs.

"Promoting the expansion of electric car charging services across the country is intended to protect the environment and reduce transport-related expenses," he said.

The three most popular EV brands in the Kingdom are BYD of China, Toyota of Japan, and Tesla of the United States.

MME spokesperson Phan Rim noted an increase in EV usage in Cambodia, in line with global trends towards EV adoption.

Speaking to Khmer Times, Rim said: "Using EVs reduces carbon dioxide emissions from petrol-powered vehicles and lowers fuel costs."

Under current regulations, the retail electricity price for EV charging is KHR 1,300 (US$ 0.32) per kilowatt, reduced from KHR 1,600 (US$ 0.4) in previous years. In response to the increase in EV usage, the EAC has developed an official EV charging application that allows drivers to locate charging stations, initiate charging sessions, and make payments across networks.