Even if the project falls short of its goals, the developers say, it is a better option than the more destructive, full-throttle approach of countries like China, India and Vietnam.
For a project of that magnitude, though, experimentation, uncertainty and trial-and-error appear to be playing a significant role. The livelihoods of displaced villagers, the effects on downstream rivers, the protection of wildlife and the role of the government are all still works in progress.
"The main issues we are concerned about are the social impact, the environmental impact and then the overall costs and benefits for the people of Laos and the ability of the government of Laos to manage a project as complex and risky as Nam Theun 2," said Aviva Imhof, campaign director at the International Rivers Network, a private monitoring group that opposes dams.
RSS