Law No. 19/NA on Electricity (Amended).

The Law on Electricity (Amended) serves as the primary legal framework for the organization, management, and inspection of electricity activities within the Lao PDR. Its overarching objective is to ensure that the development and operation of the power sector are efficient, sustainable, and aligned with national socio-economic goals. By standardizing technical requirements and promoting "green" energy production, the state aims to utilize natural resources effectively to improve the living standards of its citizens and enhance regional energy integration.
At a specific level, the Law defines the technical parameters for various energy sources—including hydro, solar, wind, and thermal power—and establishes mandatory licensing for independent power producers. It mandates rigorous social and environmental impact assessments for all projects, requiring developers to mitigate negative effects on local communities. Furthermore, it outlines a clear hierarchy of authority for monitoring power distribution and enforces strict prohibitions against unauthorized connections or safety violations, with penalties ranging from administrative fines to criminal prosecution.