CAC News
PHNOM PENH, July 1, 2026 — Cambodia officially launched the Energy Efficiency Revolving Fund (EERF) on Tuesday, marking a significant step toward promoting energy-efficient investments and supporting the country's transition to a cleaner, more sustainable economy.
The launch ceremony, organized by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) at the Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh, brought together government officials, development partners, financial institutions, and private sector representatives to introduce the new financing mechanism designed to improve access to affordable capital for businesses investing in energy-efficient technologies.
Mr. Chea Sopheak, Chief Executive Officer of the SME Bank of Cambodia, served as a guest speaker at the event, presenting how the EERF will provide long-term, concessional financing to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He emphasized that the fund will enable businesses to invest in modern equipment and machinery that improve energy efficiency while reducing operating costs and environmental impacts.
The official launch was presided over by H.E. Dr. Phan Phalla, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Economy and Finance and Chairman of the Board of Directors of SME Bank. He described the EERF as a practical solution to one of the biggest challenges facing Cambodian businesses—limited access to affordable investment capital.
According to Dr. Phan Phalla, the initiative supports the implementation of Cambodia's National Energy Efficiency Policy 2022–2030, which aims to promote clean, sustainable, and inclusive economic growth while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
He also praised the strong collaboration among the Asian Development Bank, the British Embassy in Cambodia, government agencies, and participating financial institutions, including CIMB Bank and FTB Bank, for making the initiative possible.
Dr. Phan Phalla encouraged Cambodian SMEs to take advantage of the financing program by investing in energy-efficient technologies that can enhance productivity, lower energy consumption, and improve long-term business competitiveness.
The Cashew Nut Association of Cambodia (CAC) was among the organizations participating in the event, sending two representatives to learn about the financing opportunities available for agribusinesses and food processing enterprises. Silot Uon, Chairman of CAC, noted that access to affordable green financing could help accelerate the adoption of energy-efficient technologies in Cambodia's expanding cashew processing sector, supporting both sustainable production and export competitiveness.
Reference: SME Bank of Cambodia
