Text by: Ratha Ra

Kaoh Snaeng, a village on a small island in Stung Treng province, face significant challenges in accessing energy sources and connecting to the national grid. With a population of 270 households, the village is included in Cambodia’s Power Development Plan, but the process is costly and poses difficulties for the community.

Previously, the villagers relied heavily on kerosene, batteries, and electricity generators for their energy needs. In 2019, Electricite du Cambodge (EDC) introduced rooftop solar power to the village through a private company. The solar system offered two capacity options, small and medium, with flexible pricing to accommodate the villagers’ preferences and financial situations. The solar panels were purchased and installed through a payment plan, with biannual payments over a four-year period and a one-year maintenance warranty.

The household rooftop solar systems are primarily used for lighting, fans, and phone charging. Currently, 144 households use the small capacity system, while 106 households have opted for the medium capacity system. Solar streetlights have also been installed as donations to support the community. However, the community members lack the necessary knowledge and skills to maintain and repair the solar rooftops when they break or malfunction. Despite seeking assistance from external suppliers, they have not received the required repairs.

Recognizing the difficulties faced by the villagers, Oxfam worked with I.M.B Cambodia to provide a one-week training in the village to enhance the skills and knowledge of community members in operating and maintaining solar rooftops. Our local partner, My Village Organization, assisted in organizing the training.

Oxfam has targeted Kaoh Snaeng as one of the target areas to promote just energy transition that benefits all stakeholders, especially vulnerable groups including women, girls and indigenous communities. 

Women in energy

Women play a crucial role in the energy sector in Cambodia. While the energy industry has traditionally been male dominated, there have been notable efforts to promote gender equality and increase women’s participation in this sector. Koah Snaeng serves as an excellent example of Oxfam’s efforts to empower women in the energy sector.

The technical training poses challenges for community members, particularly women, who participate. Women face additional burden of care work, but they are determined to overcome these challenges and strive for equal participation in the energy sector.

Ms. Bunthor Moun, Community Cashier and trainee said that she initially hesitated to join the training due to her lack of technical knowledge. However, her strong desire to acquire knowledge and support her family motivated her to participate. Despite discouraging comments about her gender, she remained determine and successfully managed the training while taking care of her family. 

“I believe in my abilities and aspire to become a female solar maintenance professional in my community.”

Ms. Bunthor Moun, Community Cashier and trainee

Oxfam recognizes the importance of building community capacity and continues to support the community through ongoing training on solar operations and maintenance. Trained individuals will become community experts, serving not only Koah Snaeng village but also neighboring areas. Oxfam also plan to establish a women-led group to manage a solar social enterprise to enhance income generation for the betterment of the villagers and wider community.