Vietnam utility EVN to build $277 mln transmission line to import power from China

State utility Vietnam Electricity (EVN) has got the go head to build the VND7,010 billion ($277.2 million), 500 kV Lao Cai-Vinh Yen line for transmission in the northwestern region and to import power from China.

Under a decision signed recently by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son, the project will help deliver electricity from hydropower plants in the northwestern region to the grid, reduce power loss in the grid, and act as a backup infrastructure for power import from China.

EVN can provide 20% of the project investment prior to tax and seek loans from commercial banks for the remaining amount.

The project will link Lao Cai province bordering China and other northern provinces of Yen Bai, Phu Tho and Vinh Phuc. It will feature a 229km long dual power line.

EVN plans to kick off project construction next month and complete it for connection to the national power grid next May.

Vietnam’s electricity supply reached 232.6 billion kWh in the first nine months of this year, up 10.9% year-on-year, according to EVN data.

Coal-fired power accounted for the biggest proportion at 115.27 billion kWh, or 49.6%; followed by hydropower with 65.57 billion kWh, or 28.2%.

Renewable energy made up 30.08 billion kWh, or 12.9%, including 20.4 billion kWh of solar power and 8.85 billion kWh of wind power. Gas-fired power accounted for 17.19 billion kWh, or 7.4%.

At 4.02 billion kWh, imported power accounted for 1.7% of the total.