Brian Jeffrey
Ministry Addresses Solar Project Investigations
On August 30, a meeting took place between the Ministry and the Public Security’s Investigation Agency (A09) to review ongoing investigations regarding certain projects.
These projects were referred to investigative authorities after a report from the Government Inspectorate raised concerns about the legal grounds for their approval by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. The report indicated that these projects were included in the plan without adequate legal basis.
The Investigation Agency emphasized that more time is required to comprehensively evaluate all 154 projects. Consequently, the Ministry of Industry and Trade has not yet provided guidance to the government regarding these solar initiatives.
Going forward, the Ministry plans to base its recommendations on the outcomes presented by the Investigation Agency. They will collaborate with local officials and other relevant parties to devise solutions for the projects already assigned to investors, which will then be proposed to higher authorities for approval.
Furthermore, the Ministry is actively coordinating with the Government Inspectorate regarding violations linked to wind power and small hydropower ventures, as detailed in Inspectorate’s Conclusion 1027.
The Ministry has examined seven wind power projects, which were cleared by the Prime Minister but mentioned in the Inspectorate’s findings, situated in Ba Ria – Vung Tau, Ninh Thuan, and Dak Lak provinces.
In recent talks, the Ministry also pointed out other renewable energy projects awaiting clearance under the Power Development Plan VIII. Notably, several wind power projects are planned on land rich in minerals in Dak Nong and Binh Thuan provinces, raising additional concerns.
The Ministry urged the Government Inspectorate to respond swiftly to their queries to ensure a solid foundation for recommending the management of these projects in the upcoming Power Development Plan phase.
As part of the revised Power Development Plan VIII, the Ministry has suggested that local governments investigate the feasibility of additional small hydropower, renewable energy, and various power sources to meet the country’s increasing energy demands.
Additionally, there is an exploration of permitting private solar power generation and usage within industrial zones. This initiative is backed by Dr. Cao Anh Tuan, an independent energy expert, who advocates for third-party investments in rooftop solar systems for self-consumption at industrial parks and export processing areas.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has tasked Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha with guiding the Ministry of Industry and Trade to integrate these recommendations into a draft decree focusing on the development of rooftop solar power, with a report expected by September 10.
