No alternatives for nuclear power by 2050: Deputy PM

There will be not be any energy sources which could be used to replace nuclear power in Vietnam by the year 2050, said Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai.

Deputy PM Hoang Trung Hai

Vietnam continues to develop new energy sources as an alternative for nuclear power, but, according to the Vietnamese electricity development strategy, by 2050, the country will be unable to find a sufficient a source, the deputy PM said in an interview at the ongoing 13th National Assembly.

The Government has issued a mechanism to support wind power development and also instructed ministries and agencies to study power production based on solar and wave power, Hai added.

He noted that, “We have discussed measures, such as importing electricity, the further development of hydropower plants to meet the domestic power demand; however, all of these are face certain difficulties. Therefore, finding a potential alternative primary source can help ease the country’s reliance on nuclear power,” Hai added.

Wind power production is being piloted in Quy Nhon Province

According to the deputy PM, to ease the power shortage, one of the most effective measures is using power-saving techniques.

“Everyone should start thinking about ways to reduce their power usage through practical, everyday means," Hai said.

Veitnam is still studying the feasibility of a nuclear power plant, and this type of power will not be implemented until the study proves it safe. The incident at Japan'sFukushima nuclear plant in March underlines this need. .

Organisations involved in nuclear power worldwide are looking into how to safely generate power. Currently, around 400-500 nuclear power plants are in operation globally. The issue of nuclear power is a global concern, Hai said.