Smart energy infrastructure key to Vietnam’s green growth, digital transformation

Participants emphasised that the energy systems of the future will be defined not only by power plants and transmission networks, but by integrated ecosystems powered by data, digital technologies and innovation.

Energy infrastructure must stay ahead of demand

Opening the forum, Pham Manh Hung, vice president of Voice of Vietnam (VOV) – co-organiser of the forum, said Vietnam is entering a new stage of development with the goal of becoming a modern industrialised country by 2030 and a high-income developed country by 2045.

To achieve these objectives, he stressed that energy infrastructure must be developed in a synchronised, modern and forward-looking manner to ensure reliable energy supplies while supporting digital transformation, green growth and Vietnam’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

According to Hung, the Fourth Industrial Revolution is fundamentally reshaping the way energy is produced, distributed and consumed. Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data, the Internet of Things (IoT), energy storage systems and smart grids are creating new opportunities to optimise operations, improve energy efficiency and facilitate greater integration of renewable energy sources.

At the same time, the transition presents significant challenges related to regulatory frameworks, technology, human resources and investment capital.

Financing is the biggest challenge

Taking the floor, Nguyen Xuan Bac, deputy director of the Credit Department for Economic Sectors at the State Bank of Vietnam, pointed out the country’s energy sector will require substantial investment over the coming decades.

Under the revised National Power Development Plan VIII, Vietnam is expected to need approximately US$134.7 billion for power generation and transmission projects during 2021–2030. Investment demand is projected to rise to between US$399.2 billion and more than US$523 billion during 2031–2050.

These resources will be directed toward renewable energy projects, including wind and solar power, liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities, energy storage systems and smart grid infrastructure.

While bank lending is an important source of financing, participants noted that traditional credit alone will not be sufficient to meet future demand. They then suggested the development of a more diversified financing ecosystem, including green finance instruments, green bonds, corporate bonds and infrastructure investment funds.

Ireland highlights the importance of smart energy systems

Speaking at the forum, Irish Ambassador to Vietnam Deirdre Ní Fhallúin emphasised that energy transition and climate challenges are global issues that require international cooperation and knowledge sharing. Ensuring access to clean, secure and intelligent energy systems is becoming increasingly important amid global geopolitical uncertainties and growing digitalisation.

Ireland has emerged as a leader in renewable energy development, particularly in wind power. In 2025, wind farms supplied around one-third of electricity demand across the island, with installed onshore wind capacity exceeding 5,000 MW.

However, according to the ambassador, the most important lesson is not simply increasing renewable generation capacity but effectively integrating renewable energy into the national power system.

Ireland has deployed approximately 2.2 million smart electricity metres, covering more than 80% of households and businesses. The system enables time-of-use electricity pricing, helps consumers optimise energy consumption and improves the integration of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power.

The country is also promoting sustainable development strategies for energy-intensive industries, including data centres, by locating them in areas with abundant renewable energy resources.

The diplomat stated that Vietnam and Ireland have developed strong cooperation in energy development, renewable energy research and workforce training. The partnership is being further strengthened through research programmes and support for Vietnam’s Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP).

In 2026, Ireland will continue supporting Vietnam in areas including green finance, policymaking, institutional capacity building and human resource development for the energy transition. The ambassador emphasised that climate action, energy security and economic growth should advance together as pillars of sustainable development.

Building a smart and sustainable energy ecosystem

Experts at the forum agreed that developing smart energy infrastructure is not simply about adding new power generation capacity but about transforming the entire energy system into one that is more intelligent, flexible and sustainable.

Key priorities include digitalising energy management and grid operations, increasing renewable energy integration, expanding energy storage solutions, developing smart grids and improving energy efficiency.

Achieving these goals will require close cooperation among government agencies, businesses, research institutions, financial organisations and international partners.

Participants concluded that every major phase of economic development has been accompanied by an energy transition. With clear strategic direction and growing momentum in innovation and digital transformation, Vietnam has an opportunity to build a modern energy foundation capable of supporting rapid and sustainable economic growth for decades to come.

ENTECH HANOI 2026 highlights energy-saving technologies and green solutions

VOV.VN - The Hanoi International Energy and Environment Technology Exhibition 2026 (ENTECH HANOI 2026), set for June 24-26, will feature a wide range of technologies and solutions aimed at improving energy efficiency, reducing emissions and promoting green development.