Power sector seeks way to go green over power shortage

Hydropower, renewable and gas-fueled thermal power are expected to provide 48.3% of power demand by 2020 and 39.9% by 2030, while power demand is expected to increase 9 – 10% each year during 2016 -2030.

Furthermore, the Government halted two nuclear power projects in the central province of Ninh Thuan, therefore, coal power is needed for power security but has drawbacks in economic efficiency and environmental pollution.

Quyet said renewable power would be better for the environment but requires huge initial investment.

Coal power needs a lot of land, causes environmental issues and is expensive, but still plays an important role in ensuring national power security, he added.

To limit the impact of coal power, Quyet warned that technology to deal with coal slag must be used carefully, besides measures to ensure coal supply.

The Electricity of Vietnam (EVN) has used significant sums on treating exhaust fumes from old coal thermal power plants, including Pha Lai, which received more than VND1.34 trillion (US$58.96 million), Hai Phong VND1.57 trillion (US$69.08 million) and Quang Ninh VND1.74 trillion (US$76.56 million).

Nguyen Van Thu, Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Mechanical Industry, stressed the necessity of coal-based energy.

He recommended the Government issue policies and regulations to ensure sustainable development of this power, instead of enterprises selecting their own technologies and contractors.

Mentioning 14 coal thermal power projects earmarked for the Mekong Delta region, he said the construction must be done following strict technology requirements.

The sun is also a prominent source of energy, with the south paying more attention to solar power. The EVN Southern Power Corporation is investing in a solar battery project on Con Dao island.