Vietnam kicks off plans to establish first Nuclear Power Plant
Vietnam has set a target to open its first nuclear power plant by 2030, aiming to secure clean energy for its growing economy.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh led the first meeting of a committee overseeing the project, which will be based in Ninh Thuan Province, in the south-central part of the country.
The project is important to Vietnam’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and supporting its plan for economic growth, local news reports say. The government says electricity production must grow by 15-18% annually to keep up with its ambitions for double-digit GDP growth.
The nuclear power plan was initially approved in 2009 but was paused in 2016 over safety concerns and high costs.
It was restarted by the National Assembly in late 2024, considering its importance for Vietnam’s energy future.
The government has begun working on a detailed five-year timeline to meet its 2030 deadline. Authorities in Ninh Thuan are preparing the area for construction, including upgrading local infrastructure and helping residents affected by the project.
Prime Minister Chinh emphasised that Vietnam needs to focus on nuclear energy to meet rising energy demands. He called for better training programs for nuclear experts and closer collaboration with international organisations, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Vietnam’s energy company, EVN, will lead the project, with plans to work with global consultants to ensure safety and efficiency.
The government is also creating new policies to attract skilled workers, support funding, and encourage private investment in the project.
