As CleanTechnica reported, two Southeast Asian countries are joining forces on a groundbreaking wind energy project.
The Monsoon Wind Power Project, located in Laos, started supplying electricity to Vietnam's national grid in August. Marked by a 25-year agreement and a $950 million investment backed by multiple countries, the cross-border initiative is the first project of its kind on the continent.
Vietnam's grid will be electrified by 133 wind turbines connected to a 71-kilometer (44-mile) transmission line running between the two countries' borders.
Many green energy projects are boosting economies globally, and the Monsoon Wind Power Project is no different. Development provided 1,600 construction jobs — over 1,000 of which went to Laotians.
Thanks to a $1.1 million annual community development fund, surrounding communities will receive support for mobile health care, scholarships, and other infrastructure needs. "Glad it seems like they got local community buy-in," noted one commenter.
CleanTechnica reported that the sustainable energy from the Laos/Vietnam wind project can offset as much as 1.3 million tonnes of toxic carbon dioxide polluting the atmosphere. Laos already uses hydropower extensively, but it is risky during the region's dry season. Plus, increased climate-related droughts have left farmers with severe water shortages. As Seneca Impact Advisors reported, potential flooding linked to dams puts communities and local fishing economies at risk.
Luckily, a wind farm provides the energy diversification essential to regional grid security. Plus, unlike water, wind is infinite and doesn't require transportation.
Another ecological cross-country initiative includes India's Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor that received financial backing and train technology from Japan, a pioneer in such technology. In addition, Portugal has received backing from Eco Wave Power, an Israeli company, to use ocean wave power and electrify about 1,000 homes.
Different countries working together to boost sustainable energy is a win for everyone. A reliance on dirty fuels has resulted in dense air pollution, harsher and more intense weather patterns, and areas simply too hot to live in, according to NASA. More diverse sustainable energy sources ensure residents can have access regardless of location.
As one commenter stated: "It is also good to have countries dependent on one another for mutual prosperity."
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