Brian Jeffrey
The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) has reignited discussions about nuclear energy, highlighting it as a dependable, significant, and sustainable option for ensuring Vietnam’s future energy needs.
Following the Power Development Plan VIII, the MoIT has analyzed the country’s energy demands and is reporting on the prospects for nuclear energy. Discussions on nuclear power have also been included in the latest draft revisions of the Electricity Law sent to the National Assembly.
The MoIT’s recent findings advocate for the resumption of Vietnam’s nuclear energy program, stating that nuclear power can deliver consistent, large-scale, and environmentally friendly energy, which is vital for sustainable growth and energy security moving forward.
The MoIT has cautioned about the possibility of electricity shortages from 2026 to 2030, pointing out a substantial gap in the country’s energy supply capability.
The ministry is also considering the potential for small modular reactors (SMRs) while stressing that all nuclear projects must comply with Party and State guidelines as well as the Atomic Energy Law.
In planning stages and project execution, the MoIT mentioned that aspects like capacity, site selection, and methods of energy supply will be thoroughly evaluated in collaboration with relevant agencies.
Before any investment or implementation, nuclear power initiatives must receive approval from the National Assembly, as mandated by the Atomic Energy Law. Tailored mechanisms for each project will be developed and submitted for National Assembly consent.
To promote future nuclear energy projects, the MoIT recommended the incorporation of nuclear energy regulations in the modified Electricity Law, specifically in Article 5, Clause 15 of the draft.
The MoIT reaffirmed that the Politburo has sanctioned the overarching strategy to reinstate Vietnam’s nuclear energy program.
Addressing public worries regarding issues like decommissioning, security risks, community safety, and nuclear waste management, the MoIT assured that comprehensive measures are established in the Atomic Energy Law and associated regulations.
The ministry stressed the importance of having a well-defined plan for nuclear energy development as set out in Power Development Plan VIII, which aims at ensuring energy security while supporting renewable energy expansion.
The MoIT acknowledged the advancements in cultivating a skilled workforce for nuclear energy. From 2010 to 2021, 323 Vietnamese scholars were sent to Russia for studies in nuclear-related fields. Additionally, a collaborative initiative with Japan trained over 100 students in advanced nuclear power programs specifically for the Ninh Thuan 2 Nuclear Power Project.
Furthermore, the Vietnam Electricity Group (EVN) facilitated nuclear energy training for 31 students from 2006 to 2009, with 27 of these individuals joining EVN by 2022. Among the students who studied in Russia, 177 out of 248 have been assigned to relevant roles, while others either withdrew or moved to different organizations.
For those educated in Japan, 32 graduates were appointed to core positions at the Ninh Thuan 2 plant, with 31 employed by EVN and one at the Ministry of Science and Technology.
This well-trained workforce will play a vital role in advising, developing, and managing nuclear energy initiatives as Vietnam re-establishes its nuclear power program.
Tam An
