On March 17, 2026, the EPC consortium led by China Electric Power Engineering Co., Ltd. Kunming Branch received the NTP (Official Commencement Order) issued by the Lao Benbang Power Co., Ltd. This landmark instruction marks the entry of the highly anticipated Lao Benbang Hydropower Station project into the substantive construction phase.

The Lao Benbang Hydropower Station is located in the upper reaches of the Mekong River in Pak Beng County, Udomsu Province, northern Laos. The project is of Class II Large (2) type, with an installed capacity of 912 megawatts, an average annual power generation of 4.775 billion kilowatt-hours, and an annual utilization hour of approximately 5,236 hours. As the first cascade development task on the Mekong River main stream, it is mainly for power generation, with a secondary consideration for shipping. After the completion of the project, it can promote the social and economic development of Laos and develop tourism, etc.

As the design entity of the EPC consortium for Project E, Kunming Institute began its work in 2008. Over the past 18 years, from topographic mapping to geological exploration, from scheme comparison to technical optimization, several generations of Kunming Institute designers have passed on the torch. Facing complex technical challenges and a long project duration, they have always adhered to the spirit of being responsible for the project and the client, continuously improving the design plans, and patiently awaiting the success. For Kunming Institute, this is not just an ordinary start-up instruction, but also the best reward for my institute's 18-year consistent and unwavering technical cultivation and heartfelt dedication.

In the future, the Kunming Bureau will leverage its rich experience gained from large-scale hydropower projects both at home and abroad, combine digital design and intelligent construction technologies, and work closely with all parties of the consortium. It will strictly adhere to the safety and quality bottom line, and efficiently advance the construction project. It will contribute "Electric Power Construction wisdom" to turn the Beiben Hydropower Station into a high-quality and exemplary project.

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