Key facts
- Vietnam's state utility EVN has urged consumers to conserve energy due to a severe heatwave.
- Peak electricity demand reached a record 58.46 gigawatts on Wednesday.
- Temperatures are forecast to exceed 40 degrees Celsius in several parts of Vietnam.
- Drought conditions are impacting hydropower generation.
- Authorities are implementing emergency measures to manage the power grid.
- Vietnam is increasing electricity imports and maximizing domestic power generation.
Vietnam's state utility EVN has urged firms and households to conserve energy as an intense heatwave drives electricity consumption to record highs, straining the national power grid. Temperatures are forecast to exceed 40 degrees Celsius in several parts of the country.
Peak electricity demand reached a new record of 58.46 gigawatts on Wednesday, according to EVN. The Ministry of Industry and Trade has also triggered emergency power grid measures, noting that nationwide electricity demand surged to a record 57,120 MW on May 25, a 13.5% increase from the same period in the previous year. Northern Vietnam experienced even stronger growth, with peak demand up 26.2% year-on-year.
Authorities are implementing operational measures, including adjusting hydropower and thermal power unit usage, and increasing electricity imports. Drought conditions are exacerbating the situation by limiting hydropower generation. EVN is encouraging consumers to set air conditioners at a minimum of 26 degrees Celsius and to utilize natural lighting and ventilation.
The heatwave is expected to ease from May 28, but the El Nino weather pattern is forecast to return from July, potentially worsening conditions with prolonged heatwaves and droughts, and further impacting hydropower reservoirs.