XLP member, Deufol Döhle Projects (DDP) supports major hydropower development in Laos

Deufol Döhle Projects (DDP) has completed the first critical shipment for a large-scale hydropower development currently under construction in the highlands of Laos. Despite navigating multiple regional challenges—including public holidays, rough terrain, and inclement weather—DDP successfully delivered the initial heavy-lift cargo on schedule.

The delivery, executed during Thailand’s Songkran holiday period, involved transporting over-dimensional and heavy-lift equipment more than 1,200 kilometers from the Port of Laem Chabang, Thailand, to a remote hydropower site in Laos. The cargo included eight units measuring up to 1,110 cm (L) x 590 cm (W) x 425 cm (H) and weighing up to 75 tons each.

The route required multimodal logistics planning, including a nine-hour upstream transport on the Mekong River through challenging whitewater sections. Coordination with local partners, road authorities, and river transport teams was critical due to road construction, workforce constraints, and seasonal flooding.

“After years of involvement, it was a true pleasure to see all teams work so seamlessly,” said Benjamin Ress, Managing Director of DDP Thailand. “The hands-on collaboration between our teams, partners, and client made this first of many critical shipments a real success—and something we’re proud of.”

Thanapon Varintree, Director of Business Development & Sales (Southeast Asia), added:

“Decades of hydro project experience in mainland Southeast Asia and strong in-house engineering were key to this successful multimodal transport. From jetty upgrades to barge prep and cross-border permits, our team ensured everything was in place for smooth execution. This is just the beginning of our continued commitment to hydro development in the region.”

This milestone marks the beginning of a multi-year logistics effort, with over 200,000 freight tons and approximately 100 heavy-lift and out-of-gauge units scheduled through 2028. A behind-the-scenes video of the shipment, produced in collaboration with the client and project owner, is now available on DDP’s LinkedIn page.