projects in Laos have been granted power development agreements by the Lao government, which expects to open two new power plants in the country every year from 2012–2022. An additional 31 projects are in planning stages. The controversy of dam building mirrors that concerning globalization. Proponents argue that the dams provide a sustainable source of foreign currency vital for economic growth, achieved primarily by selling electricity to neighbouring Thailand. Opponents argue that local people who suffer upheaval never get properly compensated, that flooding and water diversion adversely affect the environment, and that projects can end up less profitable than expected due to silting and/or market changes. Dam collapse In July 2018, Saddle Dam D, one of the Xe-Pian Xe-Namnoy (PNPC) hydroelectric power project dams, collapsed. At least twenty-seven people were confirmed killed with many more of the missing feared dead. References External links EDL-Generation: Nam Ngum 1 Hydro Power Plant Poyry Consulting & Engineering: Nam Ngum 2 Hydroelectric Power Project, Lao PDR Theun-Hinboun Power Company (THPC) Nam Ngiep 1 Power Company Laos Dams Dams