A severe heatwave is putting Vietnam's power system under strain, prompting the government to launch an urgent review of its long-term power development strategy. (Photo: Pixabay)
A severe heatwave is pushing Vietnam’s power system to its limits, prompting the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) to warn that electricity supply risks could intensify.
The warning comes after electricity demand repeatedly hit new highs over the past week, exposing vulnerabilities in a power system that remains heavily reliant on coal-fired generation and hydropower. The pressure is compounded by delays to key generation and transmission projects under the revised Power Development Plan VIII (PDP8), prompting the government to call for an urgent review of the country’s long-term power development strategy.
Unlock the full article to explore three key takeaways:
- Northern Vietnam's power demand reached a new record as temperatures approached 40°C, with evening hours emerging as the most vulnerable period when solar generation declines and hydropower output is constrained.
- The Ministry of Industry and Trade warned that a potential return of El Niño conditions from July could bring prolonged heatwaves, drought, and lower reservoir levels, increasing pressure on a power system heavily dependent on hydropower.
- Delays to generation and transmission projects under the revised PDP8 are raising concerns over future supply adequacy, prompting the government to consider an urgent review and prioritize baseload capacity in major demand centers.
