Vietnam Warns of Power Shortages Starting in 2027

The Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam warned that the country faces potential electricity shortages starting in 2027. In a report submitted to the prime minister, the ministry noted that only 5 percent of projects under the national growth plan are currently operational. Most of these projects have been delayed by investor selection, grid preparation, and land procedures.

This capacity gap threatens the goal of the Government of Vietnam to achieve at least 10 percent annual economic growth through 2030. The ministry projects an initial shortfall of 4,200 megawatts in 2027, which could grow to 13,900 megawatts by 2030 as industrial demand continues to outpace power generation.

To address the crisis, the ministry proposed accelerating solar installations at public buildings and increasing coal-fired power capacity. This shift toward coal is intended to reduce the country's reliance on imported liquefied natural gas, which has seen supply disruptions caused by conflict in the Middle East.