Laos electricity prices threaten push to be 'Southeast Asia's battery'

VIENTIANE -- Growing demand and a weak home currency have led to surging electricity prices in Laos, casting a shadow over the government's push to turn the country into the "battery of Southeast Asia."

On social media, people have posted photos of their electricity bills in shock at how much they have increased. One post complained of the bill jumping nearly 50% on the month to around 2.7 million kip ($125) for April.