New regulation confirms EVN’s monopoly on surplus rooftop solar energy purchases. (Photo: EVN)

The Vietnamese government has announced a new draft for the development of rooftop solar energy, which categorizes grid-connected installations into three development models. The draft also specifies that surplus energy can only be sold to the state-owned Vietnam Electricity (EVN).

Additionally, to ensure energy security and economic growth, Vietnam plans to include nuclear and hydrogen energy in its National Power Development Plan (PDP8).

Rooftop solar energy framework divides into 3 categories

The Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam submitted an initial draft earlier this year and, after gathering feedback from the public and relevant stakeholders, has revised it to prioritize self-produced and self-consumed and off-grid rooftop solar systems. These systems will have no capacity limits and do not require registration; they only need to notify local electricity regulatory bodies and submit design documents. In contrast, larger grid-connected projects will face stricter requirements.