LIRE Services

Renewable energy development in Lao PDR

The institute is uniquely positioned to undertake technical, agronomic and socio-economic research projects in Lao PDR. From its office in Vientiane, LIRE can coordinate research activities in any province. In addition to laboratory tests, the institute carries out field trials of technology in rural communities.

Past Experience

• Ban Sor Water Purification Project: LIRE conceived, developed and installed a pilot project for a sustainable decentralised water purification system for rural areas.

Consultancy and nationwide information

Organisations may contract LIRE for consultancy services in Lao PDR. These include socio-economic analyses and impact assessments; the generation of feasibility reports; and the institute can liaise with local organisations and authorities.

Past Experience

• In order to develop a biofuel policy for the Lao PDR the GoL and WB assigned LIRE to provide an assessment study to analyze impacts of an increased biofuel production and give recommendations for a sustainable biofuel policy.

Research support services

Through ongoing research programmes in Lao PDR, LIRE continues to expand its capacity to offer expert technical support to renewable energy technology projects both locally and in other regions of the world.

Past Experience

• Electronic Load Controller (ELC) testing at Faculty of Engineering: The objective of the lab experiments for the new set of load controllers was to test the current operation of the ELC and voltage stabilizer. Tests were conducted on several occasions and with different purposes. The ELC was tested by connecting it to a mechanically driven turbine, with light bulbs connected as sample loads.

Training materials and services

Central to all of LIRE’s research programmes is the involvement of local communities in the installation and maintenance of renewable technology solutions. The institute provides training and produces manuals (in Lao) for village technicians. Hence the team at LIRE can implement training initiatives for partner organisations and provide translation services for existing technical documentation into Lao.

Past Experience

• Training of technical advisors on pico hydropower system: LIRE selected and trained technical advisors from the provincial and District Department of Energy and Mines (PDEM) in Xiengkhoang and Huahphan province. The trained technical advisors will act as a trainer of trainers as well as technical advisors to provide technical service and disseminate technical knowledge on village level.