Int’l experts propose measures for Vietnam’s sustainable energy

Speaking at the event, head of the delegation of the European Union to Vietnam Bruno Angelet noted that to enhance its energy supply while protecting the environment, Vietnam should pay heed to the role of private investment, rooftop photovoltaic systems, and appropriate reform of the country’s energy structure.

Although renewable energies, like solar and wind, have attracted many foreign investors to Vietnam, there is a shortage of legal factors to support business’ operation in the field, he added. 

Furthermore, Vietnam needs a practical and comprehensive strategy to gradually reducing its use of charcoal.

The EU is willing to help Vietnam switch to clean energy, while ensuring reasonable energy prices for Vietnamese people, as well as the country’s competitiveness, said Angelet. 

Meanwhile, World Bank (WB) Country Director for Vietnam Ousmane Dione pledged that the WB will provide support for Vietnam to bring sustainable, clean, and trustworthy energy sources with reasonable prices to all citizens, including technical and policy consultation, development assistance, and measures to minimise risks, among others.

In response, Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Dang Hoang An affirmed that the country will carry out recommendations delivered at the meeting, in line with building policies and plans for energy development in the time to come. 

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vietnam recorded 40 major policy recommendations submitted by technical working groups of the VEPG. 

Established in June 2017, the VEPG aims to work towards effective and efficient international support to sustainable energy development in Vietnam, in line with national laws and international agreements of which Vietnam is a member.

The group’s five prioritised fields include renewable energy, energy efficiency, energy sector reform, energy access, and energy data and statistics.