As part of the series of special features on thepartnerships between the EU and Vietnam to promote green growth and sustainable development, on 2 October 2022, Vietnam National Television (VTV) broadcast a news report on solar power systems installed at five public facilities and five residential complexes in Da Nang with the support of the European Union (EU).

The project, 'Development of Solar Energy in Da Nang' (DSED), was funded by the EU and implemented together with the Da Nang Energy Conservation Centre (DECC) from 2017 to 2021. It is part of Vietnam’s drive to phase out its carbon-intensive energy, while simultaneously inching closer to the EU’s aim for a climate-responsive digital and circular economy in Vietnam, powered by increased renewable energy and enhanced energy efficiency.

The joint effort illustrates the EU’s strategic European Green Deal goal to help to decarbonise the energy system – an essential step to achieving climate targets in 2030 and 2050.

VTV’s report accentuates the tangible benefits of rooftop solar power, with representatives of school and hospital beneficiaries of the project explaining the stability and cost-saving effects of their new energy supply.

Mr Rui Ludovino, First Counselor of the EU Delegation to Vietnam (EUD) and responsible for climate action, environment, employment and social policy, highlights the great potential for renewable energy in Vietnam and EU support to help scale up this sector. This comes at a time when annual electricity demand in Vietnam – which is experiencing strong economic growth for its large population – is expected to increase by 10-12% per year over the next decade, making it one of the fastest growing energy consumers in Asia.

The next and final episode will focus on circular economy solutions at Cat Lai Port in Ho Chi Minh City, and is scheduled to air in November 2022.