According to updated data from the National Power System and Electricity Market Operation Company (NSMO), at 1:20 PM on May 26th, electricity consumption continued to increase. Compared to the same time on May 25th, the national power capacity increased by approximately 470 MW, with the Northern region alone seeing an increase of nearly 900 MW.

It is projected that on May 27th, the peak electricity consumption of the Northern power system during the evening rush hour (10 PM) could reach 31,000-31,500 MW, approximately 6,500-7,000 MW higher than before the heatwave. Electricity consumption for the national/Northern/Central/Southern regions will be 1221/644/107/470 million kWh respectively.

Staff from the Quang Ninh Power Company's Hotline Team repair electrical lines on the grid. Photo: EVNNPC

Amidst electricity supply constraints, LNG and oil-fired power plants are being mobilized to ensure sufficient available capacity for the national power grid during peak hours.

Mobilizing LNG and oil-fired power sources – which are more expensive than other types of power sources – aims to achieve the goal of ensuring sufficient available capacity for the national power system during peak hours, while proactively conserving water at hydropower reservoirs nationwide, especially in the Central region, to optimize water regulation for operation throughout the dry season.

The heatwave is forecast to continue until around May 27th and 28th. Temperatures in many areas of Northern Vietnam will generally range from 37-39 degrees Celsius, with some places exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. In large cities, the heat absorption effect from concrete structures and buildings with large glass surfaces will cause the perceived outdoor temperature to potentially exceed 50 degrees Celsius. Notably, the prolonged hot and humid conditions, even at night, will lead to a surge in demand for cooling devices such as air conditioners, electric fans, and refrigerators.

Employees of Nghia Lo Power Plant, Lao Cai Power Company, remain on-site to perform their duties under the harsh, hot weather conditions. Photo: EVNNPC

To both reduce electricity costs and limit the risk of localized overload during the hot season, the electricity sector advises customers to implement energy-saving and efficient electricity usage solutions such as adjusting air conditioners to 26-27 degrees Celsius or higher and combining them with fans to increase cooling efficiency; limiting the simultaneous use of multiple high-power electrical appliances during peak hours; turning off unnecessary electrical appliances when leaving the room; and prioritizing the use of energy-saving appliances.

For customers using electricity for non-residential purposes, it is recommended that they closely coordinate with local power companies in shifting and adjusting load to help reduce pressure on the power system during peak hours. In addition, the Corporation encourages households, production facilities, and businesses to research and invest in installing rooftop solar power systems for self-production and self-consumption to proactively secure local electricity sources, reduce electricity costs, and contribute to the use of green and sustainable energy.

According to a report by the Ministry of Industry and Trade , domestic and international meteorological agencies predict that 2026 will face many climate anomalies, with an 80% chance of a "super El Nino" phenomenon occurring from July onwards. This phenomenon could lead to prolonged heatwaves, droughts, and a decrease in water levels in hydroelectric reservoirs.

    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/kinh-te/tin-tuc/tieu-thu-dien-lien-tuc-lap-ky-luc-1041459