Ayala-led ACEN has marked another milestone in its regional expansion as the 600-megawatt (MW) Monsoon Wind Power Project in southern Lao PDR officially began commercial operations on August 22. The venture, backed by ACEN alongside international partners, is now supplying clean electricity directly to Vietnam in what is considered Asia’s first cross-border renewable energy project.

Monsoon Wind is Southeast Asia’s largest onshore wind farm, with 133 turbines spanning the provinces of Sekong and Attapeu. The USD 950-million project reached commercial operation four months ahead of schedule, transmitting power through a dedicated 500-kilovolt line from the Lao-Vietnam border to Vietnam Electricity’s (EVN) Thanh My substation.

The project is developed and operated by Monsoon Wind Power Company Limited, with ACEN joining a shareholder group that includes Impact Electrons Siam, BCPG and STP&I of Thailand, Mitsubishi Corporation of Japan and its subsidiary Diamond Generating Asia, and SMP Consultation Sole Company of Lao PDR. Financing was arranged by the Asian Development Bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Japan International Cooperation Agency, and other global lenders.

“This is a proud and historic moment for our company, our partners, and the region,” said Nat Hutanuwatr, Managing Director of Monsoon Wind Power. “From the early days when many doubted the feasibility of a cross-border wind farm in this terrain, to overcoming technical, logistical, and financial challenges, this achievement stands as a testament to the determination, innovation, and collaboration of everyone involved.”

Chairwoman Paradai Suebma described the project as a “tribute to vision, partnership and our commitment to sustainability,” noting its 14-year journey from concept to reality.”

“We truly appreciate the opportunity to contribute to regional growth while shaping a model for clean energy connectivity,” ACEN said in its official statement. “We also deeply value the collaboration of our partners, lenders, advisors, and contractors in making this milestone possible. And most importantly, the trust and uplifting quality of life of the communities we serve make our hearts grow and give this achievement its greater meaning.”

Beyond power generation, Monsoon Wind commits USD 1.1 million annually to a Community Development Fund supporting education, healthcare, and agriculture in surrounding villages. During construction, it generated more than 1,600 jobs, with over 1,000 taken up by Lao nationals.

By diversifying Lao PDR’s energy mix beyond hydropower and supplying Vietnam with clean electricity, the project is expected to offset 1.3 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year while advancing ASEAN’s vision for a regional power grid.

With ACEN playing a central role in Asia’s first cross-border renewable energy project, what opportunities can the Philippines pursue in regional energy integration and export of clean power?

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Photo credit: ACEN