In a significant move, Vietnam’s government has unveiled an ambitious strategy for the country’s energy future, with the Deputy Prime Minister, Bui Thanh Son, approving revisions to the eighth national power development plan. This updated plan, outlined on the government news portal, sets a bold vision for 2050, with a particular focus on renewable energy and smart grid infrastructure.
The strategy, covering 2021–2030 with a long-term outlook, emphasizes the development of intelligent grids capable of integrating vast renewable energy sources. It also underscores the importance of strengthening grid interconnectivity with Vietnam’s neighbors, including China, Laos, and Cambodia, to maintain power supply stability.
A key target is to achieve a substantial renewable electricity ratio, excluding hydropower. By 2030, Vietnam aims for renewables to contribute 28–36% of electricity generation, with a dramatic rise to 74–75% by 2050. This shift is complemented by a goal to have 50% of office buildings and households utilizing rooftop solar for self-production and consumption within the same timeframe.
Energy Production, Renewables, and Infrastructure: Vietnam’s updated energy strategy sets impressive targets for electricity output, with expectations to surpass 560 billion kWh by 2030 and a peak capacity of nearly 100,000 MW. By 2050, these figures are projected to soar, with electricity output ranging from 1,237.7 to 1,375.1 billion kWh and peak capacity reaching up to 228,570 MW.
The plan underscores the accelerated adoption of renewable energy sources, excluding hydropower. Vietnam is also positioning itself as a regional energy exporter, with wind power capacity expected to reach 26,066–38,029 MW by 2030, and plans to export renewable electricity to Singapore, Malaysia, and other partners. By 2035, export capacity could reach a remarkable 5,000–10,000 MW.
Hydropower will continue to play a significant role, with targeted capacity increases by 2030 and 2050, balanced by the government’s commitment to environmental protection and resource sustainability. Additionally, the plan promotes the utilization of biomass, waste-to-energy, geothermal, and other emerging renewable sources to enhance energy security and address environmental challenges.
Nuclear Energy, Fossil Fuels, and Investment: The revised plan also signals a notable shift away from coal, with no new coal-fired plants and the conversion of older facilities to run on biomass or ammonia. Nuclear power is set to make a comeback, with two plants expected to come online between 2030 and 2035, adding significant capacity. Gas power will prioritize domestic sources, supplemented by imported LNG, and eventually transitioning to hydrogen as technology advances.
To ensure grid reliability, Vietnam plans significant investments in battery storage as renewables expand. By 2030, storage capacity is targeted to reach 10,000–16,300 MW, skyrocketing to nearly 96,120 MW by 2050. The estimated investment requirements for generation and transmission infrastructure are substantial, totaling $136.3 billion between 2026 and 2030, and an additional $699 billion from 2031 to 2050, acknowledging the need for innovative mechanisms to mobilize such large-scale capital.
Hue Seeks Investors for the Thriving Chan May – Lang Co Economic Zone
The ancient city of Hue is seeking investment for several key projects within the Chan May – Lang Co Economic Zone for the upcoming period of 2025-2026. With a vision to revitalize and transform its southern economic region, Hue invites partners to join in this exciting journey of growth and development.
The North-South Expressway Expansion: Unlocking Prosperity with a $6.2 Billion Investment
The Ministry of Construction has proposed an ambitious expansion of the North-South expressway’s eastern wing, stretching an impressive 1,144 km from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. This project entails widening the existing four-lane highway to a substantial six lanes, promising to revolutionize long-distance travel and trade in Vietnam. With an estimated cost of 152.1 trillion VND (approximately 6.2 billion USD), this endeavor underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the country’s infrastructure and connectivity.
“Vietnam’s Innovative Strategies to Combat Air Pollution”
Clean energy transitions are vital to reducing our dependence on finite fossil fuels. We must prioritize sustainable transportation and cut vehicle emissions to ensure a greener future. Managing industrial and household waste efficiently is key, alongside stricter regulations on industrial emissions control. These proposed measures are essential steps towards a healthier, more sustainable planet.
France Commits to Supporting Vietnam’s Critical Transport Infrastructure Initiatives
France has expressed its willingness to collaborate with Vietnam on strategic transport initiatives. This was conveyed by French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot during a meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Hanoi on March 21.
Higher Standards for the 500 kV Lao Cai – Vinh Yen Transmission Line Project
The 500 kV Lao Cai – Vinh Yen transmission line is a pivotal infrastructure project, sanctioned by the Government, with Vietnam Electricity (EVN) at the helm. This ambitious double-circuit transmission line will stretch across 229.5 kilometers, traversing the northern provinces of Lao Cai, Yen Bai, Phu Tho, and Vinh Phuc. With a staggering 468 tower foundations, this project boasts a total investment of over 7.41 trillion VND (approximately 290.41 million USD), solidifying its status as a cornerstone of Vietnam’s energy landscape.
