Luang prabang: Laos's first 'Green Energy TO Zero-Carbon Library,' equipped with integrated photovoltaic, energy storage, and charging facilities, has been launched with assistance from China. This zero-carbon library, inaugurated on August 29 at Luang Prabang Peace Secondary School, stands as another 'Small yet beautiful' livelihood project under the China-Laos Belt and Road cooperation.
According to Lao News Agency, the library, located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, was unveiled just in time for the new academic term. Built with support from China's Zhejiang Province, the facility merges green energy technology with education, offering students a modern and comfortable environment for learning.
This initiative coincides with the 65th anniversary of China-Laos diplomatic relations and the jointly declared 'China-Laos Friendship Year.' The partnership was further solidified during a visit by Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith to China, where several agreements were reached to strengthen the China-Laos community with a shared future. Zalen, a second-year student, expressed excitement about the new library, stating, "Reading has become our way to broaden our horizons and gain knowledge."
Previously, students had to travel over 200 kilometers to Vientiane for a broader selection of books. Now, with the library conveniently located on campus, Zalen remarked, "There are many books I want to read here, and there is air conditioning too."
Principal Bounkham Vansy highlighted the library's role beyond just reading, describing it as 'another passage to the outside world' after the China-Laos Railway. The facility will be integrated into daily teaching to support student growth. The project also addresses local energy challenges, providing a stable supply of electricity without waiting for a comprehensive grid upgrade.
The 'Green Energy TO' team from State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Co., Ltd. implemented an integrated photovoltaic-storage-charging solution. The library, manufactured in prefabricated cabins in Zhejiang, was assembled in Laos within four days. Rooftop photovoltaic panels generate electricity during the day, with surplus power stored for use at night, ensuring a low-carbon energy model.
Alongside the library, an 'Air Classroom' was launched, connecting students in Luang Prabang with peers in Hangzhou, Zhejiang. Through online lessons, students explored Chinese culture and science, shared cultural stories, and engaged in activities such as assembling a robotic dog and learning about sustainable development. Interactive features like power-generating bicycles and solar-powered benches provided hands-on experience with green energy.
Zhang Jun, head of the 'Green Energy TO' team, emphasized the project's innovative combination of 'new energy + new education.' Future plans include 21 hours of online classes covering natural science and traditional culture.
Mr. Khamla Lianbadi, Deputy Secretary of the Luang Prabang Provincial Party Committee, praised the project for introducing advanced power technology to Laos and promoting green and low-carbon development.
The inauguration ceremony included the symbolic planting of a Champa tree, Laos's national tree, by Chinese and Lao representatives, representing the growing educational and cultural ties between the two nations.
