During the plenary discussion on the draft Resolution of the National Assembly on mechanisms and policies for national energy development in the period 2026-2030 on the afternoon of December 8th, National Assembly deputies stated that this Resolution is of significant importance, aiming to create a new institutional space for energy development in the period 2026-2030, especially with superior mechanisms to remove bottlenecks in investment in power sources, power grids, energy storage infrastructure, and new energy development.
This demonstrates the government 's bold pioneering spirit, but several key areas still need improvement.
Delegate Nguyen Anh Tri, Hanoi delegation. (Photo: National Assembly)
During the discussion, delegate Nguyen Anh Tri from Hanoi argued that the Resolution did not address the issue of hydropower, specifically small and medium-sized hydropower plants; and especially the consequences of flood discharge. Following a series of record-breaking floods recently, the Resolution needs to clearly state: "If hydropower is to be built, it must be safe; if it is not safe, it should absolutely not be built!"
Delegates argued that the issue of small and medium-sized hydropower plants has not received adequate attention, especially regarding the safety of the people and the community. Delegates proposed a review of all existing small and medium-sized hydropower plants in Vietnam to address the causes of flood releases that lead to negative consequences. If any hydropower plant cannot rectify these issues, it should be shut down. If flood releases cause damage to the population, appropriate compensation must be provided; if they cause loss of life, criminal prosecution must be pursued.
"I propose that small hydropower plants should not be built in hilly and mountainous areas with steep terrain and many streams; where advanced and safe operating procedures are lacking; and in general, the construction of small hydropower plants in our country should be limited. Instead of building small and medium-sized hydropower plants, we should focus on wind and solar power – renewable energy sources in which Vietnam has many advantages and has made significant technological progress," proposed delegate Nguyen Anh Tri.
Responding to the delegates' comments, Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien stated that, regarding small hydropower projects, there are currently relevant legal regulations that are relatively appropriate. Small hydropower projects are long-term projects and not overly urgent; therefore, the drafting agency respectfully accepts the delegates' opinions. Simultaneously, the issue of small hydropower will be addressed in the review and amendment of the Electricity Law, which is expected to be implemented in 2026.
Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien. (Photo: National Assembly)
Offshore wind power - a necessary but cautious approach.
Regarding offshore wind power, Minister Nguyen Hong Dien stated that the current legal framework is sufficient. The pricing framework for offshore wind power was issued in June 2020. Accordingly, it clearly stipulates the pricing mechanisms for the three regions, corresponding to the potential and strengths of offshore wind power.
We have huge offshore wind power potential with nearly 3,000 km of coastline, so there are many places we can develop. However, this is a new type of energy that we have never done before. Besides, this type is also linked to national security and many other issues at sea.
According to the Minister of Industry and Trade, the country stretches from North to South and has only one access point to the sea. Imagine if the entire coastline were developed for offshore wind power, and in the future, external factors would be heavily involved. So, how would we handle such exceptional situations?
"The general view of the Government, and the drafting agency in particular, is to be extremely cautious, both to exploit potential strengths and to gradually learn necessary lessons for development. If we rush too far, it will be very difficult to reverse later," Minister Nguyen Hong Dien emphasized.
Previously, delegates argued that energy is the lifeblood of the economy. With the Net Zero commitment by 2050 fast approaching and electricity demand growing, we need bold yet scientifically-based initiatives.
Empowering the private sector to participate in the energy sector demonstrates the National Assembly's confidence in the capabilities of Vietnamese businesses, while also affirming our determination to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Representative Ha Sy Dong, from Quang Tri province. (Photo: National Assembly)
Delegate Ha Sy Dong from Quang Tri province proposed shortening the time for granting survey permits; standardizing application forms; adding criteria for evaluating investor capacity for large-scale projects; and identifying a central agency to coordinate offshore wind power development.
Delegate Nguyen Hai Nam from Hue City also proposed developing a pricing mechanism and model contract suitable for offshore wind power, with competitive and reasonable bidding, ensuring competitiveness and attractiveness, and allowing for flexible adjustments according to technology and project scale. At the same time, he suggested developing a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with risk mitigation clauses such as shutdown/reduction clauses, making it easier for investors to raise capital from international financial institutions.
Source: https://vtcnews.vn/dbqh-da-lam-thuy-dien-la-phai-an-toan-khong-an-toan-dut-khoat-khong-nen-lam-ar991795.html
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