Electricity consumption in Vietnam is currently characterized by a mix of fossil and low-carbon energy sources. Fossil fuels, primarily coal, account for a little more than half of the electricity generated, making up approximately 55%. Coal is the dominant fossil fuel, contributing nearly half of this proportion. On the other hand, low-carbon sources such as hydropower, solar, and wind make a substantial contribution of close to 44% to the electricity mix. Hydropower is the leading low-carbon source, providing almost a third of the electricity, whereas solar and wind together offer about 12%. This balanced approach between fossil fuels and low-carbon energy types reflects Vietnam's ongoing transition towards cleaner energy solutions.
Is Electricity Growing in Vietnam?
In terms of electricity consumption growth, Vietnam has seen substantial increases. In 2024, the total electricity consumption per person reached 3,047 kWh, an increase of 271 kWh from the previous high in 2023. This growth indicates a dynamic expansion of electricity use in the country, suggesting rising standards of living and industrial activity. Additionally, low-carbon electricity consumption also broke records, reaching 1,336 kWh per person, an improvement from the 2022 figures. Although the increase was modest at 20 kWh per person, it is still a positive development toward green, sustainable growth. Such progress is essential to meet future demands and environmental commitments.
Suggestions
Vietnam can further boost its low-carbon electricity generation by drawing inspiration from regions that leverage solar and nuclear power effectively. France and Slovakia serve as exemplary countries, with nuclear power contributing over 60% of their electricity, providing a reliable, low-carbon source. Similarly, states in the U.S., such as Iowa and South Dakota, have harnessed wind power to account for more than half of their electricity generation. Emphasizing solar expansion is advantageous as well, learning from Lebanon's experience, where solar contributes a significant 31%. Brazil and Cyprus also demonstrate the potential of solar power within varied economic settings. Vietnam should consider investing in nuclear and solar technologies to advance its clean energy goals, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and minimize the adverse impacts of climate change.
History
Vietnam's history of low-carbon electricity generation has been marked by significant strides, particularly in hydropower. In the early 2000s and 2010s, hydropower saw substantial increments, with consistent growth until mid-2010s losses. Specifically, between 2001 and 2014, hydroelectric generation increased by periods of around 4 TWh per year, peaking with a massive 12.6 TWh jump in 2011. However, challenges arose in 2015 and 2019 with a decline in hydroelectric generation. More recent years have witnessed recovery with significant solar and wind expansions, highlighted by growth spurts of solar power in 2020 and 2021 and wind energy in 2022. This history underscores Vietnam's commitment to evolving and increasing its low-carbon electricity sources, reflecting a promising willingness to minimize fossil fuel dependency.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.