Vietnam's electricity consumption in 2024 showcases varying contributions from different energy sources. More than half of the electricity is derived from fossil fuels, with coal being the dominant source within this category at close to half of the total electricity generation. Low-carbon energy sources make up almost half of the electricity consumption in Vietnam, with hydropower being the most substantial contributor, accounting for almost a third of the total. Solar energy contributes to a little less than a tenth, while wind energy accounts for around 4%. These figures highlight a substantial portion of electricity coming from low-carbon sources, although fossil fuels remain the primary source.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Vietnam?
In examining the growth of electricity consumption in Vietnam, it's evident there's a positive trajectory. The recent per capita electricity consumption has reached 3047 kWh, surpassing the previous year's record by over 270 kWh. This increment highlights a growing demand for electricity in Vietnam. Low-carbon electricity generation also experienced growth, though more modestly, with an increase of 20 kWh per person from the previous record set in 2022. This growth in low-carbon electricity, albeit smaller, still marks an important step toward a more sustainable energy future for the country.
Suggestions
To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, Vietnam can take cues from successful regions with high low-carbon electricity outputs. For solar energy, states like California and Nevada, with their substantial reliance on solar power, offer excellent examples. For wind energy, countries such as Denmark and states like Iowa lead the way, providing significant portions of their electricity through wind power. Additionally, nuclear energy is a crucial component for clean energy transition; countries like France and Slovakia, where a predominant share of electricity is generated from nuclear, illustrate the potential of nuclear in diversifying and decarbonizing electricity supplies. By investing in nuclear and solar energy, Vietnam can amplify its clean electricity generation and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, thereby tackling climate change and improving air quality.
History
Historically, Vietnam has steadily increased its low-carbon electricity generation, particularly through hydropower. The 2010s saw substantial growth in hydropower, with particularly significant expansions in 2011 and 2017. Despite some downturns in 2018 and 2019, hydropower saw a resurgence in subsequent years, with the latest increase observed in 2024. Solar energy also experienced a notable rise from 2019 onward, especially in 2021, marking a shift towards more diverse low-carbon electricity sources. Wind energy, although a more recent addition, contributed to the low-carbon mix starting from 2022. This historical trend underscores Vietnam's commitment to expanding its clean electricity production, paving the way for a more sustainable energy landscape.
