Achieving a Net Zero Electricity Sector in Viet Nam

Exploring Decarbonisation Pathways

Photo depicts The sunset on Bac Lieu wind power field

About this report

Achieving a Net Zero Electricity Sector in Viet Nam aims to provide stakeholders in Viet Nam and internationally with an assessment of different pathways for achieving its targets and reaching net zero emissions in the power sector. The analysis is benchmarked with Viet Nam’s Power Development Plan 8 (PDP8), a detailed plan for the transformation of the power sector approved in May 2023, and considers the Viet Nam Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), which was signed by Viet Nam’s prime minister in 2022.

The decarbonisation pathways are designed to be cost-effective and technology-neutral, considering all low-emissions technologies – renewables, nuclear, carbon capture, hydrogen and ammonia – as potential options. Key outcomes of the analysis include the identification of important milestones on the road to net zero, including for the deployment of renewables, interim emissions targets and the coal phase-out schedule, while highlighting key challenges.

This roadmap also discusses the role of energy efficiency, quantifies power sector investment needs and assesses the affordability of electricity supplies to 2050 and lays out strategies to ensure the reliability and security of the electricity supply while integrating rising shares of variable renewables. The project benefitted from engagement and feedback from the government of Viet Nam and has been conducted in close collaboration with international stakeholders.