PHNOM PENH: The Royal Government of Cambodia has issued a directive introducing energy-saving measures on fuel and electricity use across all ministries and institutions in response to rising global energy prices.
The move comes as ongoing conflicts in the Middle East continue to disrupt global oil supply chains, leading to sharp increases in fuel prices, including in Cambodia. The rising cost of fuel is also expected to impact electricity production, as it remains a key input.
Despite these challenges, the Royal Government noted that Cambodia’s fuel and electricity supply remains stable for economic activities and public service delivery, based on assessments conducted with the Ministry of Mines and Energy, Electricité du Cambodge, and fuel import companies.
To address the situation, the Royal Government has called for stricter measures to reduce fuel consumption. The Ministry of Economy and Finance has been tasked with reviewing budget expenditures and identifying areas for cost-saving, particularly in fuel use and both domestic and international travel, except for essential operations related to national sovereignty, security, public order, and strategic public services.
The Ministry of Interior has been instructed to guide sub-national administrations to improve fuel efficiency, including better traffic management during peak hours and major national events to reduce congestion and unnecessary fuel consumption.
All ministries and institutions are also encouraged to limit physical meetings and long-distance travel, promoting the use of online platforms unless absolutely necessary.
On electricity use, the Ministry of Mines and Energy will issue detailed guidelines on energy-efficient practices and work with the Ministry of Information to raise public awareness through media channels.
Government institutions are required to implement energy-saving practices in office operations, while local administrations will collaborate with Electricité du Cambodge to enhance the efficiency of public lighting systems.
The Royal Government has urged all ministries and institutions at both national and sub-national levels to actively cooperate and implement these measures effectively and responsibly.