Biodiversity

Impact on Business (GRI3-3, 304-2)

CKPower’s electricity generation operations may have impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems, particularly in environmentally sensitive areas or locations adjacent to natural resources. Such operations may affect habitats, ecosystem connectivity, and ecosystem services.
The impacts may lead to regulatory and environmental compliance risks, including the risk of non-compliance with international standards such as the IFC Performance Standards and the Equator Principles.
To address these risks, the company conducts Proactive Risk Assessments and integrates the assessment results into the development of policies, operational guidelines, and appropriate mitigation and remedial measures covering the pre-construction, construction, and operational phases of its projects.
In addition, the Company integrates technology and environmental data to support biodiversity conservation and restoration. It also promotes collaboration with local communities, government agencies, and relevant stakeholders to maintain a balance between business growth and the sustainable protection of natural resources.
These approaches enhance CKPower’s credibility as a responsible business operator committed to long-term environmental and social stewardship.
Challenges and Opportunities (GRI3-3)​

Biodiversity is directly linked to the development and operation of energy projects. In this context, CKPower faces challenges related to compliance with environmental laws and standards, natural resource management within its areas of operation, and increasing stakeholder expectations for responsible nature-related impact management.

At the same time, a systematic and data-driven approach to biodiversity management enables the company to strengthen environmental risk management, enhance business resilience, and demonstrate its environmental responsibility. This approach reinforces long-term stakeholder confidence.

Advancements in data management, monitoring, and verification technologies have increased the importance of biodiversity disclosure, particularly in terms of transparency, consistency, and comparability.

In response, the Company has established an operational framework that prioritizes impact avoidance, prevention, and mitigation, alongside ecosystem conservation and restoration, to ensure effective management within its areas of operation.

This approach aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 15 (SDG 15), which aims to protect, restore, and promote the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.

In addition, in 2024, the Company published nature-related disclosures in alignment with the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) framework. In 2025, the Company developed a Biodiversity Action Plan Framework (BAP Framework) for the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant, which serves as the foundation for the development of a comprehensive Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) in the next phase.

These initiatives not only enhance the Company’s ESG credibility but also create opportunities to attract investors who prioritize nature-related risk management, while strengthening its long-term competitiveness.

Commitment (GRI3-3)

CKPower is committed to achieving “No Net Loss (NNL) of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services” by 2040.

To achieve this, the Company integrates biodiversity targets into its sustainability strategy and implements a structured Biodiversity Action Plan to systematically avoid, minimize, and manage potential impacts across its operations, while emphasizing the protection and efficient use of natural resources.

Key initiatives undertaken include:

  • Environmental Monitoring Program: Conducting systematic monitoring and assessment of environmental impacts in operational sites
  • Biodiversity Roadmap and Biodiversity Action Plan Framework (BAP Framework): Establishing guidelines for biodiversity protection and restoration
  • Adoption of the Taskforce on Nature-Related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) framework for reporting and disclosure: Ensuring transparent disclosure of nature-related financial data.
  • Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) for the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant: To elevate biodiversity management at the project level and ensure systematic implementation.

Furthermore, CKPower conducts biodiversity impact assessments encompassing both its own operations and relevant suppliers within the defined scope. This comprehensive evaluation provides valuable insights for developing and enhancing the Company’s long-term biodiversity impact management guidelines in a sustainable manner.

Operational Guideline (GRI3-3)

Biodiversity Management Policy
Biodiversity Management Policy
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Strategies and Strategic Plans

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management

CKPower acknowledges the critical importance of biodiversity and ecosystems and is committed to conducting business in strict accordance with its Biodiversity Management Policy to support sustainable conservation of natural resources and the environment. The Company places emphasis on innovation and the implementation of environmentally friendly technologies in its operations to create positive impacts and minimize negative effects on ecosystems.

Awareness Building

CKPower actively promotes awareness and fosters understanding about the importance of biodiversity and ecosystems among employees at all levels and stakeholders throughout the supply chain to build a sustainable corporate culture and strengthen collaboration among all stakeholders. In addition, the Company actively implements biodiversity restoration and conservation projects that promote community and social engagement to support sustainable development.

Biodiversity Management Framework (GRI304-3)

In its power generation operations, CKPower implements a comprehensive biodiversity framework that spans from project design to operational management across all facilities. This framework incorporates the following Mitigation Hierarchy:

Mitigatizon Hierarchy
Avoid
Minimize
Restore and Offset
  • Mitigation Hierarchy: Operate with due circumspection in conjunction with biodiversity conservation throughout project design, construction, and operational management across all company facilities to maintain biodiversity at every level.
  • Avoid: Avoid activities in areas that may result in adverse impacts or damage to biodiversity.
  • Minimize: Establish measures to reduce and limit potential impacts to the least extent feasible.
  • Restore and offset: Carry out restoration measures and, as a last resort, implement biodiversity offsets where residual impacts remain after avoidance and minimization, to support the achievement of No Net Loss (NNL) of biodiversity.
Biodiversity Roadmap (GRI304-3)

In 2023, CKPower developed Phase 1 of the Biodiversity Roadmap, spanning five years (2023-2027), to strive toward achieving No Net Loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services by 2040. This plan establishes clear annual targets and implementation guidelines to create positive biodiversity impacts and support both corporate and global sustainability goals.

Phase 1 (2023-2027): Key Action Plan

Year 2022

  • Initiated Biodiversity Road map Development
  • Established preliminary guidelines for biodiversity management.
  • Developed a biodiversity management policy

Year 2023

  • Launched the Environmental Monitoring Program to assess and monitor impacts in operating sites.
  • Developed Phase 1 of the Biodiversity Action Plan (2023-2027).

Year 2024

  • Conducted a critical habitat assessment (CHA) and develop the Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) framework for CKPower’s critical operating sites. (Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant)
  • Prepared a Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) report for transparent nature-related disclosure.
  • Developed the BAP Framework for Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant.

Year 2025

  • Completed the Biodiversity Action Plan Framework (BAP) for Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant.

Year 2026

  • Expand Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) across CKPower’s priority operating sites based on risk assessment.

Phase 2 (2026-2040): Continuous Monitoring and Implementation

  • Implement the Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs) across priority operational areas, integrating them into the Company’s environmental and enterprise risk management processes.
  • Conduct regular monitoring, verification, and performance evaluations within operating sites to assess the effectiveness of management measures and track progress toward achieving No Net Loss (NNL).
  • Review and refine biodiversity management approaches to ensure alignment with site-specific contexts, evolving risks, environmental changes, and relevant international standards and best practices.

Monitoring

  • CKPower monitors and inspects terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity in accordance with the Environmental and Social Management and Monitoring Plan during the Operation Phase (ESMMP-OP), under established environmental impact prevention and mitigation measures. Monitoring results are continuously incorporated into biodiversity risk assessments to ensure adaptive and effective management.
    • At the Nam Ngum 2 Hydropower Plant, environmental monitoring covers operational activities in compliance with applicable regulations and approved management plans, focusing on key biodiversity indicators such as sediment quality, water quality, fish species, and aquatic ecosystems.
    • Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant regularly monitors key environmental quality indicators in the Mekong River, such as sediment volume, water quality, fish species, and fish eggs in both upstream and downstream areas of the plant. The project also applies fish migration monitoring technology to analyze ecosystem changes and systematically assess ecological trends on an ongoing basis.
  • Deforestation
    • Based on monitoring conducted across all power plants during the operational phase, no deforestation activities were identified within the Company’s operational boundaries. Furthermore, none of the Company’s power plants are located within protected areas, forest reserves, or UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Hunting
    • CKPower enforces a strict no-hunting policy prohibiting the capture of aquatic and terrestrial wildlife within all power plant areas during both the construction and operational phases. It also conducts awareness activities with surrounding communities on the impacts of illegal hunting and collaborates with relevant authorities to support the designation of nearby wildlife conservation areas.
  • Contamination
    • CKPower implements systematic waste, wastewater, and air emission management systems, covering the collection, segregation, treatment, and disposal of all types of waste in accordance with established procedures. Effluent and air emissions are monitored prior to discharge to ensure compliance with applicable laws and standards. These measures aim to prevent and minimize impacts on ecosystems while promoting the sustainable use of resources within project areas.

Study

  • CKPower conducts spatial and species-level biodiversity assessments, including evaluations of protected and conservation areas, as well as protected species classified under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) criteria.
  • Currently, none of the Company’s power plants and offices are located inside IUCN Category 1-4 protected areas, forest reserves, and World Heritage sites.
  • It also conducts biodiversity baseline studies prior to project development for projects that may have potential impacts on biodiversity.

Assessment

CKPower conducts evaluations of residual biodiversity risks and impacts arising from the operations of all business units within the relevant scope. The findings are used to inform preventive, restoration, and conservation planning to maintain long-term ecological balance. These assessments cover both core operational areas and industrial zones with relatively low ecological impact to ensure comprehensive management aligned with conservation standards.

Management

  • CKPower develops and implements biodiversity management plans in alignment with IFC Performance Standard 6 (PS6): Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Resources, identifying impacted areas and assessing potential threats from power plant activities, including changes to natural habitat characteristics and risks associated with invasive species.
  • Biodiversity Management Plans (BMPs) are prepared for areas classified as Critical Habitat in accordance with IFC PS6 criteria.
  • The Company prepares Biodiversity Management Plans (BMPs) for areas classified as Critical Habitat in accordance with IFC PS6 criteria.
  • Screening assessments based on the Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) framework are conducted for power plants located in areas with biodiversity-related risks.
  • Nature-related disclosures are published in line with the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) framework to enhance transparency and strengthen enterprise-level nature risk management.
TNFD Report 2024
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Support

CKPower enhances stakeholder engagement by supporting wildlife conservation projects and community livelihood development initiatives around its power plants, contributing to biodiversity conservation and supporting sustainable operations.
Hybrid Fish Passing and Fish Locks System at the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant

CKPower operates the Hybrid Fish Passing and Fish Lock System to support the conservation of biodiversity in connection with the operation of the 1,285-megawatt Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant on the Mekong River, located between Xayaburi and Luang Prabang Provinces in the Lao PDR. The project covers an operational area of approximately 564,000 hectares. Species-specific studies were conducted during the design and construction phases to ensure the suitability of the system for target fish species. In addition, risk assessments of aquatic species were undertaken with reference to the IUCN Red List prior to the implementation of the Hybrid Fish Passing and Fish Lock System.

The system consists of an 18-meter-wide Vertical-slot Fishway with a maximum depth of 16 meters, connected to large-scale Fish Locks. Its design and operational mechanisms are aligned with the size and behavioral patterns of Mekong fish species to facilitate migration during breeding and spawning seasons. This system helps maintain aquatic life cycles and biodiversity, while supporting power plant operations alongside the sustainable preservation of ecological balance within the Mekong River Basin.

Fish Passing and Fish Locks System VDO
Long-term targets, 2025 targets, and 2025 achievements (GRI3-3)
Biodiversity
Biodiversity
(GRI 304)
Long-term Targets
Development of a Biodiversity Management Plan
2025 Targets 2025 Achievements
Complete Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Framework for the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant
100%
100%
Collect baseline for BAP: Biodiversity Action Plan for NN2
Ongoing collect baseline for BAP for NN2
SDGs
Biodiversity
Biodiversity
(GRI 304)
Long-term Targets
Assessment of residual impacts at all operating sites by 2026
100%
 Achieve No net loss (NNL) of biodiversity and ecosystem services by 2040
No Net Loss
2025 Targets

2025 Achievements
Complete Biodiversity data collection and assessment of protected areas and species according to IUCN for the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant
100%
100%
Complete Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) report
100%
100%
Fish to migrate upstream safely, maintaining or exceeding the 2024 level.
≥132
species
143
species

Project Highlight 2025

In 2025, CKPower developed the Biodiversity Action Plan Framework (BAP Framework) for the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant to serve as the foundation for the development of a comprehensive Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) in the next phase.

The development of the BAP Framework aims to establish a structured approach to managing biodiversity impacts in alignment with international environmental and natural resource conservation standards. The framework focuses on addressing residual impacts arising from project operations and defines management measures in accordance with the Mitigation Hierarchy (avoid, minimize, restore, and offset) to support CKPower’s long-term commitment to striving toward No Net Loss (NNL) of biodiversity.

1.1 Implementation Process:

The development of the BAP Framework is aligned with the TNFD LEAP approach and the requirements of IFC Performance Standard 6 (PS6). The key implementation steps are as follows:

L : Locate – Identify Areas and Nature-related Context

  • External experts were engaged to establish the framework and operational standards in alignment with IFC Performance Standard 6 (PS6).
  • The study boundaries were defined, and the significance of the area was assessed against Critical Habitat criteria using existing data and project-specific survey data.

Outcome: Identification of biodiversity-sensitive areas and the level of ecosystem sensitivity.

E : Evaluate – Assess Conditions and Risks

  • Conduct surveys of species, ecosystems, and potential threat factors to establish baseline data.
  • Analyze the data to assess residual impacts and biodiversity-related risk levels.

Outcome: Enhanced understanding of impacts, risks, and management priorities.

A : Assess – Evaluate Responses and Management Opportunities

  • Develop the Biodiversity Action Plan Framework by identifying key risk issues and defining measures for avoidance, minimization, and restoration.
  • Design appropriate management measures and approaches based on risk levels and site-specific context.

Outcome: Defined management guidelines to address impacts and enhance opportunities for biodiversity conservation and restoration.

P : Prepare – Develop Plans and Implementation Mechanisms

  • Establish governance structures, roles, and collaborative mechanisms involving government agencies, communities, and stakeholders in line with the stakeholder engagement principles of IFC Performance Standard 6 (PS6).
  • Develop the BAP Framework by defining measures, activities, implementation timelines, responsible parties, and performance indicators to enable systematic monitoring and evaluation.

Outcome: An operational biodiversity management framework that serves as the foundation for developing a comprehensive Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) in the next phase.

1.2 Assessment Results:

As of 2025, the project has made significant progress in developing the Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Framework in two key areas: the completion of the Critical Habitat Assessment (CHA) and the establishment of the BAP Framework. These outputs provide an essential foundation for defining avoidance, restoration, and offset measures to address biodiversity impacts in the subsequent phase.

  1. Completion of the Critical Habitat Assessment (CHA): The project reviewed biodiversity data from international databases and existing survey records to assess the significance of the area against the Critical Habitat criteria under IFC Performance Standard 6 (PS6). The analysis identified key species groups, ecosystems, and priority areas that require conservation-focused management, which will be incorporated into the development of the comprehensive Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) in the next phase.
  2. Development of the Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Framework: The BAP Framework was developed to cover the defined study boundaries, key risk issues, and management approaches in line with the Mitigation Hierarchy.
  3. Integration of CHA and BAP Framework Findings: The findings from the CHA and the BAP Framework were consolidated to establish preliminary biodiversity management directions, covering both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. These outputs will inform the development of the comprehensive Biodiversity Action Plan in the next phase.

CKPower monitors the effectiveness of the Hybrid Fish Passing System at the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant by applying advanced technologies, including:

  • Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT Tag System) to study fish migration behavior.
  • Hydroacoustic Cameras (ARIS) to continuously monitor fish movement 24 hours a day.

These technologies have been in operation since 2019 and continue to be implemented on an ongoing basis.

2025 Performance:

  • 96 fish species were successfully recorded migrating upstream through the fish passage system.
  • Since the system’s initial operation, a total of 143 fish species have been recorded to migrate upstream safely through the system.
  • The management of the fish passage system has maintained a balance between electricity generation and fish migration, with no significant adverse impacts observed on natural migration patterns.

In addition, CKPower conducted surveys of species listed on the IUCN Red List and national conservation lists within the Nam Ngum 2 Hydroelectric Power Plant area. In 2025, the Company focused on expanding data collection across other hydropower plants to strengthen comprehensive and sustainable biodiversity management practices. (GRI304-4)

Number of Species on the IUCN Red List and All National Conservation Lists Found in the Area Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant 2025 Nam Ngum 2 Hydroelectric Power Plant Bang Pa-In Cogeneration Power Plant (Located within an industrial estate and outside the biodiversity survey scope.) Bang Khen Chai Solar Power Plant
Operation area of each power plant 110 Hectares 115,790 Hectares 5.86 Hectares 29.6 Hectares
Critical Endangered (CR) 1 Species 1 Species 0 Species 26 Species
Endangered (EN) 1 Species 1 Species 0 Species 31 Species
Vulnerable (VU) 9 Species 0 Species 0 Species 46 Species
Near Threatened (NT) 5 Species 2 Species 0 Species 0 Species
Least Concern (LC) 117 Species 28 Species 0 Species 0 Species
Data Deficient (DD) 10 Species 1 Species 0 Species 2 Species

The Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant conducted community awareness activities in upstream areas to enhance understanding of the value and importance of protected forests and protected wildlife. The program also emphasized the role of local communities in participating in the stewardship of natural resources. The initiative aims to raise awareness and foster collaboration to support the sustainable conservation of ecosystems in the project area.

Objectives:

  • To promote knowledge, understanding, and awareness of the value and importance of natural resources, particularly protected forests and wildlife within local communities and surrounding areas.
  • To strengthen awareness of the roles and responsibilities of communities in conserving forest resources and protected wildlife, and to reduce activities that may negatively impact ecosystems.
  • To foster collaboration among the power plant, government agencies, and local communities in safeguarding and sustainably conserving natural resources.

Target Group:

Residents in four upstream communities surrounding the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant, namely Ban Pak Seuang, Ban Thin Kaew, Ban Wang Sa, and Ban Huai Khuea.

Approach and Activities:

  • Developed educational materials in infographic format on protected forests and wildlife in areas surrounding the communities to ensure accessibility and clear understanding.
  • Conducted on-site awareness sessions and information dissemination across all four communities, providing a platform for dialogue and two-way communication between the power plant and local residents.

Outcomes:

  • Residents in all four communities demonstrated increased knowledge and understanding of forest and protected wildlife conservation.
  • Positive attitudes and greater awareness of individual roles in natural resource conservation were strengthened, empowering community members to drive sustainable change.
  • Collaboration and active participation were enhanced through ongoing dialogue and joint efforts to sustainably manage natural resources surrounding the power plant.

Ban Pak Seuang, Luang Prabang Province

Ban Thin Kaew, Luang Prabang Province

Sustainability report 2025