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Breakthrough in Renewable Energy: Waste-to-Energy and Floating Solar Leading the Green Future

Writer's picture: Virtus ProsperityVirtus Prosperity


Waste-to-energy (WTE) is generated by incinerating waste to produce thermal energy. According to the Ministry of Science and Technology, waste incineration technology for electricity generation is increasingly being adopted due to several advantages, such as:


  • Reducing 90-95% of the volume and weight of waste.

  • Utilizing heat for energy production.

  • Lowering greenhouse gas emissions compared to landfill methods.

  • Minimizing water pollution, foul odors, and pest infestations.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade is actively encouraging localities to invest in waste-to-energy plants and prioritize the inclusion of floating solar power projects in development plans. This direction was highlighted at the conference on the implementation and adjustment of Power Development Plan VIII on December 31, 2024.


Maximizing Energy Source Planning

The online conference with representatives from 63 provinces and cities provided a platform for localities to propose energy planning adjustments that align with their natural potential and development needs. Key proposals include:

  • Quang Ninh: Suggested increasing wind power capacity from 400 MW to 600 MW.

  • Kien Giang: Proposed adding 20 MW of waste-to-energy and 1,600 MW of wind power.

  • Lam Dong: Advocated for the development of additional pumped-storage hydropower on the Dong Nai River basin and floating solar power on water surfaces.

  • Thai Nguyen: Proposed adding 10 MW of waste-to-energy and 200 MW of solar power by utilizing 6,000 hectares of industrial park rooftops.

  • Other provinces: Khanh Hoa, Ninh Thuan, Lao Cai, Gia Lai, and Lang Son suggested diversifying energy planning to fully exploit local potential.


Hanoi's Renewable Energy Development Plan


The Hanoi People’s Committee recently issued Plan No. 361/KH-UBND for renewable energy development in the city by 2025. This plan aims to promote new and renewable energy sources to ensure a reliable electricity supply, enhance energy security, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect the environment.

Hanoi also intends to encourage the development of rooftop solar power projects in line with the government’s solar energy policies. Additionally, the city will prioritize investments in advanced waste treatment facilities, focusing on waste-to-energy technology. By 2025, Hanoi aims to:

  • Increase waste-to-energy capacity by 67 MW, bringing the total energy capacity from waste treatment to approximately 129.3 MW.

  • Add around 30 MW of rooftop solar power capacity.

  • Encourage the use of solar-powered public lighting systems to enhance sustainability.


Existing Waste-to-Energy Plants in Vietnam


Vietnam currently operates several waste-to-energy plants, including:

  • Soc Son Plant (Hanoi): Processes 4,000 tons of waste per day, generating 75 MW.

  • Vinh Tan Plant (Binh Thuan): Processes 600 tons of waste per day, generating 30 MW.

  • Phu Ninh Plant (Phu Tho): Processes 500 tons of waste per day, generating 25 MW.

  • Cu Chi Plant (Ho Chi Minh City): Processes 1,000 tons of waste per day, generating 50 MW.


Notably, 34 waste-to-energy projects with a total capacity of 621.1 MW have been proposed in the renewable energy portfolio.


Nguyen Tuyen Tam, Head of Planning and Development at the Department of Electricity and Renewable Energy, stated:"We are currently studying adjustments to project scales to align with local waste resources while also assessing their impact on the power grid."


Floating Solar: Maximizing Water Surface Potential


In addition to waste-to-energy projects, the Ministry of Industry and Trade encourages localities to utilize water surfaces, particularly hydropower reservoirs, for the deployment of floating solar power. Areas with readily available water surfaces and existing grid connections will be prioritized for inclusion in planning.


Deputy Minister Nguyen Hoang Long emphasized:"Rooftop solar power in industrial zones has grown significantly following the issuance of Decree 135. The Ministry is currently researching mechanisms to encourage more similar projects."


Towards Ambitious Goals under Power Development Plan VIII


Approved in May 2023, Power Development Plan VIII outlines sustainable and efficient development of renewable energy sources. The Ministry of Industry and Trade plans to submit adjustments to the plan for approval by February 28, 2025, to address practical needs and align with energy sector development strategies.


Promoting waste-to-energy and floating solar power not only addresses energy challenges but also represents a breakthrough in waste management and the efficient utilization of water resources. This initiative presents Vietnam with an opportunity to advance its renewable energy development and environmental protection efforts.




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