Laos confirms no power misuse by call center scams in Myanmar
VIENTIANE, LAOS — Electricité du Laos (EDL), the state-owned electricity provider, has confirmed that its electricity exports to Myanmar are not being used by illicit call center operations.
This assurance follows joint inspections conducted by both Laos and Myanmar authorities, ensuring that the power supply is directed solely toward legitimate public users.
Energy allocation focused on public services
EDL reiterated on Tuesday, February 11, that electricity transmitted to Myanmar is allocated exclusively for public services such as residential use, small businesses, government offices, schools, and hospitals. The company emphasized its commitment to ethical energy distribution and preventing any misuse of its resources.
Power supply cut to prevent misuse
In a proactive measure last week, EDL reduced its electricity supply to Myanmar’s Tachileik district in Shan State by half, lowering it from 27 MW to 13 MW. This decision came after a surge in electricity demand following Thailand’s suspension of power exports to Tachileik.
Thailand’s initiative, aimed at crippling call center scam operations in the region, has already shown tangible results. Over 100 workers exploited by these illicit operations were recently freed and sent back to Mae Sai district in Chiang Rai.
By cutting power, EDL seeks to complement these efforts, ensuring that its energy is not misused for criminal enterprises while maintaining an adequate supply for legitimate public needs.
Agreement caps electricity exports
Under a power purchase agreement signed in 2021 with a licensed private company in Myanmar, EDL is authorized to supply up to 30 MW of electricity at a voltage of 115 kV to Tachileik.
However, actual exports have consistently been limited to a maximum of 13 MW since the supply began in May 2022. This cap ensures compliance with the agreement and prevents overuse or misuse of energy resources.
Regional cooperation under ASEAN framework
Laos operates within the ASEAN framework for regional energy cooperation, which facilitates power-sharing agreements with neighboring countries. EDL clarified that its electricity exports are restricted solely to the Tachileik district and do not extend beyond this area.
Broader efforts against cross-border crime
This move aligns with regional initiatives to combat transnational crime networks while safeguarding essential services for local communities.
By reducing power supply and conducting inspections, Laos demonstrates its commitment to supporting legitimate users and curbing illegal activities in neighboring regions.
