Synopsis: The year-long programme will engage 30 commercial entities through a gamified energy efficiency competition inspired by France’s CUBE contest.
To support Cambodia’s ambitious objective to reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings by 25% by 2030—as outlined in the National Energy Efficiency Policy 2022–2030—the Ministry of Environment and sustainability consultancy Sevea officially launched the PowerWise programme, a pioneering national initiative aimed at accelerating energy efficiency across the commercial sector.
The launch, announced during a joint press conference on Friday, marks a strategic step forward in Cambodia’s efforts to promote sustainable development and address urgent national energy challenges.
Slated to run from September until August 2026, the PowerWise programme will engage 30 commercial organisations, institutions, and NGOs across Cambodia in a dynamic, year-long energy efficiency competition. This third edition builds on the success of its two previous iterations—widely recognised as the Cambodia Energy Efficiency Competition—and introduces advanced tools and personalised support tailored to Cambodia’s specific energy landscape.
Speaking during the press conference, MoE spokesman Khvay Atitya highlighted the significance of Cambodia’s PowerWise programme within the broader national and global context of climate action and sustainability.
According to Atitya, the PowerWise initiative is part of Cambodia’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, specifically through the implementation of its Nationally Determined Contributions, the Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality, and the Circular Strategy on Environment 2023–2028.
In particular, the PowerWise programme supports the implementation of Cambodia’s National Energy Efficiency Policy, promoting efficient energy use in the commercial building sector. The initiative uses friendly competition among buildings to directly drive energy savings, reduce operational costs, and cut carbon emissions.
“This initiative not only brings notable economic benefits,” he emphasised, “but it also reflects a deep commitment to environmental sustainability. Participating buildings can significantly reduce energy expenditure by improving their efficiency—contributing directly to reduced greenhouse gas emissions.”
With growing demand for a reliable and affordable electricity supply, Cambodia has identified energy efficiency as a core component of its Climate Change Strategic Plan. However, the commercial and real estate sectors have so far lacked practical implementation tools and public engagement. PowerWise seeks to fill this gap through a hands-on, competitive model inspired by France’s renowned CUBE energy-saving contest, adapted specifically for the Cambodian context.
According to Sevea, commercial buildings in Cambodia could waste as much as 30% of their energy consumption due to inefficient practices. The PowerWise programme responds to this by offering enhanced, personalised support and advanced digital tools to help businesses identify and implement effective solutions.
Sevea Director Frantz Vaganay noted that more than 40 buildings have joined the PowerWise programme so far, with a target to increase participation to more than 50 buildings in the third season.
