Multiple solutions taken to ensure power supply in southern region

Duc told the Vietnam News Agency that his corporation requested the Southern High Voltage Electricity Company monitor power consumption and outline an operation method for the 110kV power grid to ease power losses.

Electricity companies in cities and provinces were asked to partner with local Departments of Industry and Trade to roll out monthly and yearly power supply plans, which will be submitted to the municipal and provincial People’s Committees for approval.

Power should be prioritised for fresh water supply, health care services and drought and disease prevention, as well as major socio-political events, Duc said.

The official said the corporation has teamed up with relevant agencies to reduce the time and scope of power outages and organise weekly teleconferences discussing how to make the work run smoothly.

According to Duc, although electricity facilities in the southern region have proven effective over the past years, raising public awareness of energy saving is an important job.

A range of communication campaigns have been launched to encourage the efficient use of energy such as Earth Hour and Power-Saving Day, he said.

Duc said the total water volume in southern hydropower stations makes up only 80% of the dams’ accumulated capacity, causing a power shortage of about 3.22 billion kWh in 2016.

Southern localities are forecast to consume up to 8,450 MW this year, up 9.98% against the figure recorded in 2015 with the March-June period set to be the peak time for consumption.

Power output in 2016 is expected to hit 55 billion kWh, representing a year-on-year increase of 11%, he said.