Loem Houng, a 47-year-old Cambodian, is among dozens of local engineers who have built successful careers at the Lower Sesan II hydropower station after years of hands-on work and training.
He joined the 400-megawatt plant in Sesan district in 2017, where Chinese experts trained him in operating and maintaining power-generation machinery.
Today, he serves as a supervisor in the operation and maintenance unit. In an interview with Xinhua, Houng said he feels proud to work at such a large hydropower facility and grateful for the technical knowledge he has gained.
The company, he noted, consistently trains new staff in technical skills, communication, and safety. He added that the project has significantly benefited Cambodia’s economy and local communities by stabilizing electricity supply and creating employment.
Launched in 2018, the Lower Sesan II hydropower station is a joint venture among China’s Huaneng Hydrolancang International Energy, Cambodia’s Royal Group, and Vietnam’s EVN International Joint Stock Company.
It is considered a flagship Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project in Cambodia. Another technician, Khorn Ruos, said the station has equipped him with lifelong skills.
Working at the plant since 2018, he expressed pride in his job and appreciation for the competitive salary, housing, meals, and other benefits provided. Pan Qi, a Chinese staff member, said the project has focused on localization by training a new generation of Cambodian engineers. He noted that dozens of them can now independently operate the facility.
According to Pan, the hydropower station supplies Cambodia with stable, clean, and green energy while prioritizing economic growth, environmental protection, and community well-being.
