The Nakai District Governor, Mrs Bouaka Keomany, beats the gong to mark the formal opening of the festival.

Celebrating 15 Years of Nam Theun 2: An icon

Nam Theun 2 marks a historic milestone in 2025, celebrating 15 years since its commercial operations began on April 30, 2010. This anniversary is not only a moment of pride but a powerful opportunity to reflect on the company’s journey, its mission and its enduring commitment to sustainability.
Celebrations to mark this milestone were held from October 10 to 12, 2025, as part of the vibrant Nakai-Nam Theun Festival, which included the district’s boat racing festival, with enthusiastic participation by guests from across the country.

Popular artists perform on stage.

The inclusion of Nam Theun 2’s anniversary in the festival programme was made possible due to the gracious support of the Nakai district authorities, all relevant offices and the people of Nakai.
“Today marks a momentous occasion for the people of Nakai district. United in spirit and purpose, our community - alongside the senior party committee members, civil servants, party members, development partners and both public and private sector enterprises - has come together to celebrate our traditional annual boat racing festival for the year 2025,” the Nakai district Governor, Mrs Bouaka Keomany, said in her opening speech.

Fireworks light up the sky.

“This year’s celebration is especially meaningful. It commemorates not only our cultural traditions but also a significant milestone in our journey of development - the 15th anniversary of electricity generation and commercial operation by the Nam Theun 2 Power Company. This achievement reflects our collective efforts in advancing sustainable energy and improving livelihoods across the region.”
The Nam Theun 2 CEO, Mr Marc-Antoine Rupp, added: “Additionally, the year 2025 is a meaningful milestone for Nam Theun 2, marking the 15th anniversary of its commercial operation since 2010. For our company, celebrating our 15th anniversary in Nakai is an important symbol of the close collaboration and deep connection we have had together since the early stages of the Nam Theun 2 project.

Boats queue up for the race.

“Indeed, Nam Theun 2 and Nakai will forever be linked. Nakai is the home to our reservoir, but also where we have successfully implemented many social and environmental programmes, some of which are still operational today in close cooperation with the district authorities.”
Nam Theun 2 is proud to contribute to the festival through a concert series featuring popular artists, bringing joy and entertainment to the community and the visitors; the first-ever fireworks show in Nakai, lighting up the sky in celebration; a large-scale advertising campaign to promote the event and its significance; and sponsorship and financial support to ensure the festival’s success and inclusivity.
Beyond celebration, the festival serves as a platform to promote Nakai district as a tourist destination, showcasing its hospitality, local businesses and cultural richness. From restaurants and hotels to shops and scenic attractions, Nakai is ready to welcome visitors with open arms.
Nam Theun 2 Power Company Limited, a partnership between the Lao government and private shareholders, was established to develop and operate the Nam Theun 2 Hydroelectric Project for the first 25 years under the mission: “To safely generate renewable energy, contribute to the development of Laos, and be a hydropower reference.”

By Advertorial Desk
(Latest Update October 21, 2025)