In Vietnam, electricity consumption is mostly based on fossil fuels, but it features a significant proportion from low-carbon sources. More than half of the electricity, specifically 55%, still comes from fossil fuels, with almost 48% attributed to coal. In the realm of low-carbon electricity, which accounts for nearly 44% of the consumption, hydropower plays a leading role, contributing about 31%. Solar and wind energy contribute smaller shares, accounting for around 8% and 4% of the electricity generation, respectively. The distribution indicates a promising move towards cleaner energy, though fossil resources remain dominant.
Is Electricity Growing in Vietnam?
Electricity consumption in Vietnam is on a notable upward trajectory. The latest numbers for 2024 show that the electricity consumption has increased to 3047 kWh per person, up from the previous record of 2776 kWh per person observed in 2023. This signifies an increase of 271 kWh per person, highlighting a growing demand. Simultaneously, low-carbon electricity generation per person rose to 1336 kWh, compared to the previous record of 1316 kWh set in 2022, marking a modest improvement of 20 kWh per person. These increments suggest an ongoing shift towards a greener electricity consumption pattern, though more robust advancements are imperative to meet future energy needs sustainably.
Suggestions
Vietnam can substantially boost its low-carbon electricity generation by drawing inspiration from successful regions around the world. Notable examples include France and Slovakia, which have developed robust nuclear energy sectors contributing 69% and 64% of their electricity, respectively. Following the model of wind-rich regions like Iowa, where wind accounts for 62% of their electricity, and Denmark, with wind providing 57%, Vietnam could expand its investments in both nuclear and wind. Additionally, the impressive solar performances seen in Lebanon, with 31%, and Nevada at 29% can guide Vietnam in amplifying its solar energy deployments. By embracing a combination of solar, wind, and nuclear energy strategies tailored to its unique geographical and economic context, Vietnam can advance towards a more sustainable and reliable electricity infrastructure.
History
Vietnam's history of low-carbon electricity generation reveals important trends in hydropower and the more recent inclusion of solar and wind. The early 2000s saw increases in hydropower, including notable surges in 2011 and 2012 with gains of 12.6 TWh and 12.2 TWh, respectively. However, there have been fluctuations, such as a decline in 2015 by 6 TWh, and a more pronounced decrease in 2019. Solar energy began its rise in 2019, with an increase of 4.8 TWh, gaining momentum with a significant surge of 15.4 TWh in 2021. Similarly, wind energy started contributing in 2022 with a 5.8 TWh addition. Recent years underline the significant but fluctuating role of hydropower alongside the growing contributions from solar and wind, suggesting diverse avenues for enhancing Vietnam's low-carbon electricity generation in the years ahead.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.