On the afternoon of July 9, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha chaired a nationwide hybrid meeting to discuss the addition and update of the National Power Development Plan for the period 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050 (Power Plan VIII).

Deputy Prime Minister Ha emphasized that this task is both scientifically and technically complex. It requires meticulous implementation of the investment process for power projects and transmission infrastructure as outlined in Power Plan VIII, while also being responsive and flexible to ensure energy security for socio-economic development.

He urged the Ministry of Industry and Trade to refine the implementation plan for Power Plan VIII to avoid wasting investment resources and meet local development needs.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, Nguyen Hoang Long, stated that to ensure the development of centralized solar power projects for direct electricity trading, the Ministry has reviewed and recommended that the Prime Minister assign the Government Inspectorate to quickly resolve difficulties related to 154 solar power projects under investigation, enabling local authorities and investors to proceed with projects that align with the power structure in Power Plan VIII.

Furthermore, the Ministry will continue to identify and evaluate solar power projects eligible for implementation.

Leaders from several provinces highlighted that many projects were only delayed or had minor rectifiable violations, not warranting criminal investigation. These projects met the Ministry’s criteria but were still excluded from the updated plan. Additionally, some provinces requested allocation of capacity for wind power projects, solar projects with storage, waste-to-energy projects, and biomass energy projects to meet the capacity targets set in Power Plan VIII.

Regarding projects currently under inspection, a representative from the Government Inspectorate confirmed that solar power projects with concluded inspections are no longer under investigation. The Ministry of Industry and Trade will review and identify projects that have rectified their violations and meet the criteria for inclusion in the plan.

In conclusion, Deputy Prime Minister Ha reiterated the commitment to not limit the development of renewable energy, provided it ensures system safety. He called for timely updates to Power Plan VIII to facilitate the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

He also instructed the Ministry of Industry and Trade to continue reviewing and updating the plan with solar and wind power projects that have no violations or have resolved them per inspection, audit, or judicial conclusions, ensuring they meet criteria for system safety, transmission technology, and economic efficiency.

"Do not waste investment resources and meet the local development needs," Deputy Prime Minister Ha emphasized.

Luong Bang