Central Vietnam-based Hai Lang LNG power project behind schedule: authority

The first phase of the Hai Lang LNG-fired power project in Quang Tri province has not met its progress schedule outlined in the commitment between the investor consortium and the local government, said the Quang Tri Economic Zones Authority (QTEZA).

According to the authority, the Hai Lang LNG Power Center project received in-principle approval from the QTEZA in October 2021, with an estimated total investment of nearly VND54 trillion (over $2.3 billion).

It will cover approximately 148 hectares in the energy complex of the Southeast Economic Zone in Hai Lang district.

As planned, its first phase will feature the construction of the Hai Lang LNG terminal, capable of receiving LNG carriers ranging from 170,000 to 226,000 cubic meters and handling 1.5 million tons of LNG annually. It also includes the development of the Hai Lang Power Center with an expected generation capacity of 1,500 MW.

Construction is expected to begin in Q4/2025 and take 48 months, with commercial operations targeted for Q4/2029.

The QTEZA noted that the project has completed several essential administrative procedures, including updates to the general and subdivision planning schemes for the Southeast Economic Zone, revisions to the 1/500 detailed land use plan, environmental impact assessments, risk quantification reports, and amendments to the investment policy.

During a recent working session with the provincial People’s Committee, the investor consortium - comprising Vietnam’s T&T Group and South Korea’s Hanwha Energy Corporation, Korea Gas Corporation (Kogas), and Korea Southern Power (Kospo) - cited internal factors as reasons for the delay.

They reported that internal approval of the feasibility study is underway and that they plan to establish a project office in Quang Tri province in May.

Ha Sy Dong, acting Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee, requested the consortium to establish a representative office and deploy technical personnel in Quang Tri by early May.

He also called for the prompt completion and handover of land measurement documentation and clarification of land use rights; acceleration of land recovery and site clearance; and adjustment of detailed planning and investment policy. These steps will enable Hai Lang district to issue formal land recovery and clearance notifications.

Additionally, Dong urged the consortium to approve the feasibility study before May 10 as the foundation for establishing a project management entity in Quang Tri.

He assigned the Department of Industry and Trade to advise the provincial government in submitting a formal proposal to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, seeking solutions to issues such as the power purchase agreement (PPA), electricity pricing, and power mobilization timelines.

The QTEZA was also instructed to coordinate with the Department of Construction in supporting the investor consortium in negotiations with the My Thuy International Port Joint Venture Company, aiming to finalize agreements on the development and use of the maritime channel and vessel turning basin that will support the project.