The Ministry of Electric Power and Energy has announced plans to increase daily electricity distribution hours across Myanmar, according to an official statement.
Under the new plan, electricity will be supplied for 18 to 20 hours per day in Yangon Region, 16 to 18 hours in Mandalay Region, and at least 14 hours in other states and regions.
The decision was made during a coordination meeting on boosting electricity generation, held on April 22 at the ministry’s Office No. 27 in Nay Pyi Taw. The meeting was attended by Union Minister U Ko Ko Lwin, Deputy Minister U Aye Kyaw, senior officials, and representatives from relevant departments and electricity supply corporations. Officials from the Mandalay Electricity Supply Corporation joined via video conferencing.
During the meeting, the Union Minister discussed strategies to increase power generation and distribution, including accelerating ongoing energy projects and exploring additional energy sources. He also emphasized the need to urgently repair damaged hydropower plants, transmission lines, and substations that had been affected by attacks, noting that such incidents had caused delays and casualties among staff.
The ministry acknowledged that delays in project implementation have contributed to the current electricity shortages. Although liquefied natural gas (LNG) is costly, it will continue to be used as a temporary solution. Electricity generated from LNG is currently being supplied to industrial zones and large-scale businesses at a rate of 900 kyats per unit through dedicated lines to ensure uninterrupted power.
Officials stated that efforts are being made to optimize available energy resources, including hydropower, natural gas, coal, and solar energy, to improve overall electricity generation. With increased natural gas availability and improved system management, the ministry aims to enhance power distribution nationwide.
As a result, Yangon will see an increase from the current 16–18 hours of electricity supply to 18–20 hours daily, while Mandalay will increase from 14–16 hours to 16–18 hours. Other regions will see supply rise from around 12 hours to at least 14 hours per day.
The expanded electricity distribution schedule took effect starting at 3:00 PM on April 22.
