The Power of Summer: Securing a Stable Supply

Employees of Ho Chi Minh City Electricity Corporation. (Source: nhandan.vn)

As a response to the surging electricity demand, the Ministry of Industry and Trade released the 2025 Power Supply and Grid Operation Plan (adjusted under Decision No. 3300/QĐ-BCT dated December 15, 2024). The total electricity production and imports for 2025 are projected to reach 347.5 billion kWh, marking a notable 12.5% increase from 2024 levels. This plan anticipates a potential surge in electric load demand during the peak months of April, May, and June, with an expected increase of over 14%.

Even before the onset of the peak summer heat, data from March indicates a significant upward trend in electricity usage. According to the National Load Dispatch Center (NSMO), the average daily load reached 874.5 million kWh, reflecting an increase of 47.8 million kWh compared to March of the previous year.

Focusing on Ho Chi Minh City as a case study, the average daily electricity consumption in March climbed to 86.97 million kWh, representing a substantial 16.32% jump from the previous month. Residential consumption witnessed an even more pronounced rise, peaking at 42.64 million kWh/day, an increase of 19.81%. With April typically being the hottest month, coupled with expectations of dry and stifling weather conditions, the city’s electricity usage is projected to surge to 100.8 million kWh/day. This equates to a remarkable 34.83% increase from February and a 15.5% rise from March.

To address this surge in demand and ensure a stable power supply, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, along with Vietnam Electricity (EVN), are proactively implementing several strategic measures. These include efficient water level management in hydropower reservoirs, securing a stable supply of coal, and ensuring the consistent availability of fuel.

Additionally, EVN has finalized comprehensive contingency plans to address extreme heat events, enhance northbound power transmission, regulate reservoir water discharge, and expedite maintenance of power units to mitigate any potential disruptions.