Vietnam is currently grappling with a severe heatwave that has placed significant strain on its national power grid. The country’s industry ministry has warned that the situation could deteriorate further with the anticipated return of the El Nino weather pattern from July. This weather phenomenon, characterized by the warming of ocean surfaces, is known to increase the likelihood of droughts and heatwaves.
Impact on Residents
In the northern regions of Vietnam, temperatures have consistently hovered around 40 degrees Celsius (104°F) for several days. In Hanoi, the capital city, residents have reported experiencing power cuts across various districts, leading to sleepless nights as the demand for electricity has surged beyond the grid’s capacity. Nguyen Nhat Quang, a Hanoi resident, shared his experience of enduring three power cuts in one night, each lasting at least 40 minutes. He expressed concerns about the need to find alternative accommodations to ensure his children can sleep uninterrupted.
The industry ministry has highlighted the risk of prolonged heatwaves, droughts, and declining water levels in hydroelectric reservoirs from July onwards. These factors could further exacerbate the power supply challenges faced by the country.
Temporary Relief and Long-term Concerns
Meteorologists have forecasted a temporary easing of the heatwave starting Thursday, offering some relief to residents after enduring extreme temperatures. However, the state utility, EVN, has stated on its official Facebook account that there are no planned power cuts and that efforts are being made to maintain a stable power supply. Despite this assurance, the utility did not respond to inquiries regarding the ongoing power outages.
Electricity consumption in Vietnam has reached new daily peaks since May 23, with demand surging particularly in the evenings when solar power is unavailable, and low water levels in hydropower reservoirs limit generation capacity. The situation is further complicated by Vietnam’s heavy reliance on coal-fired power plants and hydropower dams, making the power system vulnerable to rising fuel costs and low reservoir levels.
The ongoing conflict in Iran has also contributed to unprecedented energy supply disruptions, with international oil prices peaking above $120 a barrel last month. In response, EVN has urged households and businesses, especially in the northern regions, to reduce power consumption to mitigate the risk of further strain on the power grid.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
