Vietnam triples its clean energy goals, aims to get 16% of its power from solar

Vietnam is significantly revising its energy strategy, prioritizing solar power over coal and natural gas. The new plan triples the solar energy target to 16% of total energy production. Offshore wind projects are scrapped in favor of onshore wind, rooftop solar, and energy storage solutions. This shift is driven by the cost-effectiveness and ease of implementation of large-scale solar farms. Vietnam anticipates needing over 211 gigawatts of energy by 2030, significantly more than previously projected. The country experienced rapid solar expansion initially but faced grid limitations. Coal use has surged, making Vietnam a top coal importer. Grid upgrades are necessary to manage the influx of renewable energy. The government is facilitating direct power purchases by factories to alleviate grid pressure. Despite clean energy expansion, coal use remains high due to drought-related hydropower losses and industrial demand. Phasing out coal will be a gradual process given existing investments in coal-fired plants.