Lights off in Vietnam during Earth Hour

The country saved 451,000 kWh of electricity, equivalent to VND731.5 million (over US$32.810), from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. on March 19 when people nationwide were encouraged to turn of unnecessary electrical devices, the Electricity of Vietnam Group’s National Load Dispatch Centre said. 

In Hanoi, lights were switched off around the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, and other well-known destinations like the Ly Thai To flower garden, the Hanoi Opera House and along streets. 

In the central province of Quang Nam, residents and tourists floated candle lanterns on rivers in Hoi An and engaged in cultural activities during the electricity-free hour. 

This is the eighth year Vietnam participated in the global Earth Hour campaign, which was launched by the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) to raise public awareness about efficient energy use in the age of climate change. 

In Vietnam, the event was organised by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, WWF and the Danish Embassy.