Mr Kabin Somphongsayakun (front, left) and Mr Phouthong Sisavath (right).

Laos signs MoU to explore green energy-powered AI infrastructure

The National Data Center under the Ministry of Technology and Communications has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Silicon Tech Park (Lao) Sole Co Ltd for a feasibility study on developing artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure powered by green energy.
The ceremony for signing the MoU was held in Vientiane on June 2 in the presence of the Minister of Technology and Communications,  Dr  Boviengkham Vongdara. The agreement was formalised by Mr Phouthong Sisavath, the acting head of the National Data Center, and the Director of Silicon Tech Park (Lao), Mr  Kabin Somphongsayakun.
Under the MoU, the two parties will collaborate to establish an AI Innovation Centre as a pilot project, focusing on delivering AI infrastructure and services using clean electricity. The initiative aligns with Laos’ commitment to digital transformation and environmental sustainability.
The initiative includes a joint feasibility study on developing a dedicated AI Special Economic Zone (SEZ) covering more than 150 hectares in the capital area of Vientiane, a key component of the project.
The proposed zone aims to attract foreign and domestic investments, enhance technological infrastructure, and position Laos as a regional hub for sustainable AI development.
The project supports the country’s long-term goals to advance digital transformation and build a robust AI ecosystem, aligning with global trends in clean technology and innovation.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr  Phouthong emphasised the strategic significance of integrating green energy with cutting-edge technologies to support Laos’s digital transformation goals. He said the proposed AI SEZ will play a vital role in advancing Laos’ AI ecosystem and fostering innovation.
The advancement of digital technology development must be accompanied by sustainable development, environmental friendliness, energy saving, and the use of green and renewable energy, such as solar, wind and hydroelectric power.
AI development is a sector with high energy consumption, and this requires authorities to consider environmentally friendly energy sources. Laos has potential in hydroelectricity and hydropower can meet this demand.
Mr Kabin noted that Laos, with its geographic advantages and abundant clean energy resources, is well-positioned to lead in sustainable technology. He stressed the importance of thinking creatively and adopting new business models that combine clean electricity with technological innovation.
“The key to the future is staying ahead of rapidly changing technology,” Mr Kabin said. “With Laos ranked among the top clean energy sources in Asia, we aim to create a new business model that integrates renewable electricity with AI development. This ‘Green AI Data Center’ project in the Lao PDR is a bold step forward, though it requires significant investment, advanced technical knowledge and strong international cooperation.”
The project supports Laos’ national digital transformation strategy, which prioritises building a robust digital economy and modernising public services by using innovative technologies.

By Phetphoxay Sengpaseuth
 (Latest Update June 4, 2025)