EV Charging Stations in Kandal: A 2025 Guide to Cambodia’s Electric Mobility Transformation

Kandal province, situated adjacent to Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh, is playing a pivotal role in the nation’s ambitious electric vehicle (EV) adoption and sustainability strategy. As Cambodia shifts toward cleaner transportation technologies, the development of EV charging infrastructure in Kandal is critical to enabling widespread EV use for residents, commuters, and businesses. This 2025 comprehensive guide details the current landscape of EV charging stations in Kandal, government policies driving growth, technology deployed, environmental and economic benefits, practical advice for EV users, challenges faced, and future prospects.

Table of Contents

Cambodia’s Green Mobility Vision and Kandal’s Significance

Cambodia’s National Policy on Electric Vehicles (2024–2030) sets a robust framework to increase EV registrations—targeting approximately 770,000 EVs by 2030, with an emphasis on electric motorcycles, passenger cars, tricycles, and commercial EVs. Kandal, being a province encircling Phnom Penh, serves as a vital commuter belt and economic zone where clean transportation solutions are in high demand.

The province’s demographic density, industrial development, and extensive transport connections make EV charging infrastructure crucial for the region’s sustainable development and urban planning goals.

EV Charging Infrastructure in Kandal

As of mid-2025, Kandal is witnessing steady growth in its EV charging infrastructure:

Charging Stations Count: Approximately 10 public EV charging stations are operational in key urban centers such as Ta Khmao and along major routes leading into Phnom Penh, with more installations planned.
Charging Technology: The existing stations feature mainly Level 2 AC chargers providing 7 to 22 kW power for residential, workplace, and public area charging. DC fast chargers are emerging in commercial zones for rapid charging of taxis and delivery vehicles.
Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT), private businesses, and international development partners like UNDP and ADB is instrumental in expanding coverage and ensuring quality standards.
Residential and Commercial Adoption: Increasing numbers of residential complexes and industrial parks in Kandal offer EV charging facilities for tenant convenience and corporate sustainability initiatives.

Types of Available EV Chargers in Kandal

The EV charging network in Kandal utilizes several key technologies designed for a variety of use cases:

Level 2 AC Chargers: Most prevalent, suitable for daily routines and parked charging at homes and workplaces.
DC Fast Chargers: Found at select public locations, expediting charging times essential for commercial use and long-haul trips.
Smart Chargers: Incorporating real-time monitoring and app-based access controls, enhancing user convenience and grid efficiency.
Connector Compatibility: Chargers accommodate Type 2 and CCS connectors, adhering to international compatibility standards facilitating wide EV model support.

Government Policies Driving EV Growth in Kandal

Cambodia’s policy environment significantly influences EV adoption and infrastructure development in Kandal:

Import and Purchase Incentives: Tax reductions and import duty exemptions to promote affordability of EVs and related equipment.
Infrastructure Support: Grants, simplified licensing, and subsidies promote the deployment of public and private charging stations.
Safety, Interoperability, and Quality Standards: Adoption and enforcement of UN regulations (UNR100, UNR136) ensure consumer protection and uniform charging experiences.
International Cooperation: Engagement with global development agencies ensures technical expertise, financing, and capacity building.
Unified Tariff System: Cambodia maintains clear electricity tariff rates for EV charging (approx. 1,050 riel per kWh for AC and 1,350 riel per kWh for DC fast charging), fostering transparent, affordable, and competitive pricing.

Environmental and Economic Impacts in Kandal

EV adoption, powered by the expanding charging network, contributes to:

Cleaner Air: Reducing vehicular emissions improves air quality and public health, vital in densely populated areas in and around Phnom Penh.
Economical Transport: EVs lower fuel and maintenance expenses, benefiting families and enterprises, especially fleets in logistics and transport sectors.
Employment Generation: Job opportunities arise in installation, operation, maintenance, and manufacturing related to EV technology and infrastructure.
Energy Independence: Using Cambodia’s growing renewable energy resources decreases the country’s dependence on imported fuels.

Practical Tips for Kandal EV Users

Utilize mobile platforms and local guides for locating charging stations and checking their availability.
Plan to charge routinely with Level 2 chargers at home or work to maximize cost savings and battery longevity.
Use DC fast chargers judiciously for urgent charges during long trips or commercial operation.
Confirm EV compatibility with local station connectors and power outputs before purchase.
Monitor evolving government policies and tariff changes to optimize usage and savings.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite achievements, the road ahead presents challenges:

Limited charging infrastructure outside key urban centers may hamper wide adoption.
Need for sustained and strategic electrical grid upgrades to meet increasing EV demand.
Public education and awareness campaigns to overcome misconceptions and encourage early adoption.
Investment mobilization to support infrastructure quality, affordability, and reach expansion.

Addressing these concerns will be pivotal for Kandal’s full embrace of electric mobility.

The Roadmap Ahead for Kandal

Aligned with Cambodia’s national targets, Kampong Speu intends to deepen its EV charging network by:

Increasing DC fast charger installations along main transport corridors.
Deploying solar and renewable energy-powered charging infrastructure.
Enhancing digital infrastructure for station management and consumer engagement.
Promoting electric public transport and commercial fleet electrification.

Such initiatives promise to integrate Kandal seamlessly into Cambodia’s green mobility ecosystem.

Conclusion

Kandal province represents a dynamic and rapidly evolving market for electric vehicles in Cambodia. Growing EV charging infrastructure, bolstered by progressive policies and global partnerships, is facilitating access to cleaner, affordable, and efficient mobility solutions.

These developments not only contribute meaningfully to Cambodia’s climate commitments but also catalyze economic opportunities and improved quality of life for Kandal’s residents and visitors. By embracing this green transport journey, Kandal is paving the way towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.