EDF says that 070 MW, has just produced its first kWh during tests on one of its six turbines. The tests were conducted by EDF in co-ordination with NTPC (Nam Theun Power Company), a 35% subsidiary of EDF, and will continue until the power station is finally brought on line, expected at the end of the year.

The Nam Theun 2 power station is equipped with four 250 MW turbines producing electricity for Thailand’s power network, and two 37 MW turbines producing electricity for Laos. 95% of the energy produced will therefore be exported to Thailand via a 138 km high voltage transmission line. The remaining 5% will meet 20% of Laos’s annual electricity needs.

Hydroelectricity is the first renewable energy harnessed by EDF. Nam Theun 2 is a major project for the group in Southeast Asia and employed over 9000 people when the work was at its peak, 80% of them Lao.

Tags: EDF Energy