Power sector to meet difficulties in meeting rising demand

The power sector will meet difficulties in meeting demand from next year or 2020 considering the high growth at more than 10% a year in electricity consumption, according to the Electricity of Vietnam (EVN) group.

At a review conference of the Ministry of Industry and Trade on July 9, EVN Chairman Duong Quang Thanh said the increase in electricity output over the past years did not catch up with the growth of demand.  

According to Thanh, electricity generation capacity was raised by 3,000 MW in the past period while demand grew by 4,000-5,000 MW.

The group has reported the problem to the Ministry of Industry and Trade and suggested several solutions, including raising oil-fuelled electricity output to ensure supply in 2019 and 2020, he said, adding that it will put high pressure on the group’s financial capacity but there is no other more feasible choice.  

As from 2020 and beyond, the group is negotiating the purchase of electricity from regional countries, especially from Laos, and investors of solar power plants. 

The EVN urged the Ministry of Industry and Trade to early issue a price framework to facilitate power purchase negotiations with Laos. 

The group also proposed buying more electricity from China, at about 3-4 billion kWh from the present level of 1.2-1.5 billion kWh. 

Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh said the ministry will accelerate the development of the price framework for electricity purchase from Laos. 

He also acknowledged the difficulties facing the power sector. At the same time, he urged the sector to continue working on its outstanding issues such as completing the competitive electricity market, the electricity generation market and restructuring enterprises in the sector. 

The minister said the power sector should work to diversify sources of energy supply, ensure the energy system safety and improve energy use efficiency towards the overall goal of meeting energy demand for national socio-economic development. 

According to reports at the conference, the electricity sector posted a 10.4% growth in the first half of this year, generating an estimated 99.68 billion kWh of electricity, up 10.3% year on year, while commercial electricity was estimated at 91.48 billion kWh.

VNA

Other News

Private economic sector poised for breakthrough growth

Private economic sector poised for breakthrough growth

More than a year after the Politburo's Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW on private sector development came into effect, expectations now extend beyond increasing the number of enterprises. The goal is to build a stronger business community with greater resilience, larger ambitions and the capacity to compete in global supply chains.

Vietnam remains ASEAN growth leader in 2026 despite global headwinds: WB

Vietnam remains ASEAN growth leader in 2026 despite global headwinds: WB

Vietnam is expected to remain one of ASEAN’s fastest-growing economies in 2026, supported by resilient exports, strong investment inflows and an ambitious reform agenda, despite mounting global uncertainties, according to the World Bank’s latest Vietnam Economic Update released on May 15.

Ministry establishes monitoring framework for carbon market

Ministry establishes monitoring framework for carbon market

Under a new circular, the exchange of greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits is conducted on the domestic carbon credit exchange through the carbon trading system, which is interconnected with the national registration system.

Biofuel ready for nationwide rollout

Biofuel ready for nationwide rollout

For biofuels, particularly E10, to develop successfully, stronger and more coordinated policies are needed, especially pricing mechanisms capable of creating a sufficiently attractive gap between E10 and mineral-based petrol, an expert has said.

Vietnamese farm produce promoted at African investment, trade forum

Vietnamese farm produce promoted at African investment, trade forum

The 12th Africa Forum for Investment & Commerce (AFIC 12) opened in Algiers, the capital of Algeria, on May 9, drawing around 2,000 participants, including officials, economists, businesses, financial and development organizagtions from 43 African countries and international partners, including Vietnam.

Int'l medical, pharmaceutical expo opens in Hanoi

Int'l medical, pharmaceutical expo opens in Hanoi

The exhibition, which runs until May 9 at the Hanoi International Centre for Exhibition, showcases advanced products and technologies across a range of fields, including pharmaceuticals, drug manufacturing machinery and equipment, medical devices, hospital and clinic services and dental equipment.

Mega projects to transform Ho Chi Minh City urban landscape

Mega projects to transform Ho Chi Minh City urban landscape

Leading the charge in this massive building spree is the new central city square in the core of the Thu Thiem new urban area. Spanning more than 20 ha, it’s the crown jewel of the Central Square and new administrative center complex.

Vietnam establishes itself as one of region’s most dynamic manufacturing and supply bases

Vietnam establishes itself as one of region’s most dynamic manufacturing and supply bases

The country’s stable political and economic environment provides a critical foundation for long-term sourcing strategies. At the same time, Vietnam has demonstrated a strong ability to scale up manufacturing, supported by a continuously expanding industrial base capable of meeting both high-volume demand and increasingly complex technical and quality requirements.

Vietnamese pomelos gain broader access to Australian market

Vietnamese pomelos gain broader access to Australian market

The update by Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to its Biosecurity Import Conditions system (BICON) on April 10, officially setting out import conditions for Vietnamese pomelos, is regarded as a major milestone in market access efforts.

Vietnam's industry spearheads transition to circular economy

Vietnam's industry spearheads transition to circular economy

The circular economy is no longer just a policy choice. It has become an inevitable trend for delivering sustainable and green growth, sharpening competitiveness at home and abroad, and meeting Vietnam’s net-zero emissions target by 2050. It is now a prerequisite to sustain long-term economic expansion, particularly in industrial production and supporting industries.

Nearly 100 tonnes of Vietnamese fruits, vegetables airlifted to UAE

Nearly 100 tonnes of Vietnamese fruits, vegetables airlifted to UAE

Vietnamese fresh produce and processed foods are increasingly recognised for their quality, with items such as cashew nuts, coffee and spices gaining popularity among Middle East consumers. In 2025, Vietnam’s farm produce exports to the UAE exceeded 445 million USD, up nearly 24% year-on-year.