Sweden, Viet Nam promote cooperation in building modern, sustainable power grid

On the afternoon of December 1, the EnergyConnect thematic exchange on building efficient power infrastructure for a sustainable future was held in Ha Noi within the framework of the Sweden–Viet Nam Energy Alliance. The event attracted the participation of policymakers, industry leaders, and technical experts from both countries for active discussions.

At the event, delegates from Viet Nam and Sweden focused on practical solutions for modernising the power grid, including long-distance power transmission, power quality, and renewable energy integration, as well as lessons learned from global best practices — all towards a shared spirit of cooperation in building a modern power grid.

Notably, on the occasion, Swedish companies including Hitachi Energy, Unipower, Comsys, AFRY, Svenska Kraftnät (the Swedish National Grid Authority), and SEK (the Swedish Export Credit Corporation) shared deep insights into technologies, approaches, and financial tools successfully applied in Sweden and other markets. Through sharing experiences, these representatives affirmed their readiness to support Viet Nam’s energy transition while agreeing that flexibility must be maintained rather than promoting and imposing a single model for all circumstances.

Meanwhile, Vietnamese partners, including representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Electricity Regulatory Authority of Viet Nam (ERAV), the Institute of Energy, the National Power Transmission Corporation (EVNNPT), the Northern Power Corporation (EVNNPC), Ha Noi Power Corporation (EVNHanoi), and the National Load Dispatch Centre (NSMO), highlighted priority issues in Viet Nam such as rising electricity demand, renewable energy integration, and improving system flexibility.

All parties agreed that solutions must be tailored to Viet Nam’s context, ensuring cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and alignment with national strategies.

Sharing a common vision for a sustainable energy future, speakers emphasised the importance of partnership and knowledge exchange. Ambassador Johan Ndisi underlined: “Sweden values the opportunity to share experiences and learn together. Through cooperation, we can support Viet Nam’s efforts to build a reliable and sustainable power system.”

Echoing this view, Chandan Singh, Managing Director of Hitachi Energy Viet Nam, expressed confidence that cooperation is the foundation of progress. “By combining global expertise with Viet Nam’s ambitious energy goals, we are committed to delivering advanced transmission and power quality solutions that will help create a reliable, flexible, and sustainable power grid. Together, we can advance the transition to a greener future,” Mr Singh said.

Sweden is regarded as one of the world’s cleanest and most innovative energy producers. More than 90% of its electricity and 95% of its heating come from non-fossil fuel sources. As of 2024, the country’s energy mix includes nuclear power (33%), biofuels and waste (33%), and hydropower (16%), alongside the rapid expansion of wind power. Sweden introduced the world’s first carbon tax and maintains one of the highest carbon prices globally — key drivers behind its rapid decarbonisation.

Also at the event, delegates discussed financial frameworks, regulatory requirements, and international case studies, paving the way for new partnerships, pilot projects and commercial cooperation — all essential factors in supporting Viet Nam’s energy transition and long-term net-zero goals.

Delegates agreed that Sweden’s experience demonstrates that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand. Through knowledge sharing, adapting proven technologies and leveraging flexible financing sources, Sweden and Viet Nam can work together towards an energy system that is reliable, cost-effective, and future-ready.