A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Environment, Resources and Development

Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2001

Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia. A national electricity grid is non-existent. The country has the highest price of. electricity, the lowest electrification ratio, and the lowest reliability of the region. The reliance on biomass resources puts an enormous pressure on forests. A secure and sustainable supply of biomass resources is required to reduce deforestation and to supply households and small-scale industries with fuel for cooking and other purposes. Additionally, biomass could be used for electricity generation. The objectives of this report are to provide: {u2022} An assessment of the Cambodian energy sector and an assessment of the relevant institutional framework and the policy framework, regarding the use of biomass. {u2022} An assessment of the current availability, utilisation, and distribution of biomass in Cambodia. {u2022} An assessment of biomass for power generation in Cambodia. Almost all biomass residues are currently being used. More biomass can be made available through plantation, efficiency improvements, improved logistics, and improved biomass management practices. In order to achieve this, policies need to be adopted and incorporate biomass more explicitly. The rural electrification strategy needs to put more emphasis on of biomass.