China and Myanmar will reportedly work together on a wind power project in the Arakan State townships of Ann, Thandwe and Gwa.
Junta-controlled media reported on Thursday that a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed in Naypyidaw on March 1 between the Department of Electric Power and Planning under Myanmar’s Ministry of Electricity, and Energy and Primus Advanced Technologies Limited, Asia Eco-energy Development Limited, and Yunnan Machinery & Equipment Import & Export Co Ltd.
A wind power project in Ann Township will produce 150 megawatts, a project in Gwa Township will produce 100 megawatts, and a third project in Thandwe Township will produce 110 megawatts.
U Phoe San, a former Arakan State lawmaker for Kyaukphyu Township, told DMG that while the public welcomes a new generation of wind energy, it remains to be seen to what extent it will benefit the people.
“Wind power projects are being implemented successfully in Germany and other countries. It remains to be seen how the wind power project will be implemented in Arakan State. What needs to be observed for criteria is whether the environment is damaged, and whether there is any benefit to the people,” the ex-legislator added.
Three projects are slated to be fully operational by 2025, and the first phase of the Gwa project will be implemented in December 2023.
“If electricity is produced from the wind power project, local people will be able to expand their job creation and if rural areas get electricity, it can be said to be a good sign. Local residents will also get employment opportunities because of this project,” said U Win Than Oo, a hotelier from Thandwe.
Junta-appointed Minister U Thaung Han said it is necessary to act in accordance with the existing laws, regulations and procedures issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation in order to prevent the wind power project from causing any damage to the environment, the junta-controlled Myanmar Alinn newspaper reported.
“If this project is implemented, some of the people who support the military regime will get jobs and benefits. I see that the military regime plans to develop this project not for the people, but for their own benefit,” said a resident of Ann.
The MoA signing ceremony was attended by junta-appointed minister U Thaung Han, deputy minister U Aye Kyaw, Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Chen Hai and other officials.
The Chinese ambassador said that cooperation between China and Myanmar, which is rich in wind and solar energy, hydropower and natural gas, will be beneficial for both countries.
The wind power project to be implemented in Arakan State is the first electricity sector project between China and Myanmar in Myanmar.
