China-Laos 500 kV project fully connected for regional growth, livelihood
The Chinese and Lao sections of the China-Laos 500 kV Interconnection Project achieved full connection on February 5, marking a decisive step for the major initiative under the China-Laos Community with a Shared Future Action Plan and paving the way for its scheduled operation in April this year.
The China-Laos 500 kV Interconnection Project achieves full connection on February 5.
Spanning 177.5 km, the transmission line connects the 500-kV Na Mo 3 Substation in Oudomxay Province, Laos, with the 500-kV Xishuangbanna Substation in southwest China's Yunnan Province. The 32.5-km section within Laos, invested in and constructed by Electricite du Laos Transmission Company Ltd. (EDL-T), officially commenced construction on February 26, 2025.
Construction teams from both nations worked in close coordination to achieve the connection ahead of schedule, demonstrating high-level synergy in cross-border engineering cooperation.
A substation of the China-Laos 500 kV Interconnection Project
Workers operate on the China-Laos 500 kV Interconnection Project.
Once in operation, the project will enable a two-way electricity exchange capacity of 1.5 million kilowatts and deliver approximately 3 billion kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually. This is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 2.5 million tonnes per year, establishing a green power corridor for regional interconnectivity and clean energy consumption in the Lancang–Mekong region.
During construction, the project team strictly implemented Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. By optimizing route planning and adopting integrated “cut and cross” construction techniques, the project reduced tree felling by over 83 percent to protect the local forest ecosystem. Safety was also prioritized, with landmine clearance zones expanded to 70 meters off the line.
Workers operate on the China-Laos 500 kV Interconnection Project.
The China-Laos 500 kV Interconnection Project achieves full connection on February 5.
The project has also brought tangible benefits to local communities. The construction team rebuilt and handed over Namo Tai Village Primary School and donated five libraries to improve local education conditions. In addition, hundreds of jobs were created and targeted training programs were provided for Lao technical personnel, helping to cultivate a skilled workforce to support long-term, sustainable development.
Centered on the Na Mo 3 Substation, the project is set to become a grid hub in northern Laos, pooling regional photovoltaic and hydropower resources. It will enhance power mutual assistance between Laos and China, optimize local energy mix, and drive regional industrial development.
The China-Laos 500 kV Interconnection Project achieves full connection on February 5.
Photos by China Southern Power Grid