Encouraging Rooftop Solar Development: New Policy Directions from the Government

On the afternoon of September 24th, under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, the Standing Government held an important meeting to discuss a new draft decree aimed at promoting the development of rooftop solar energy. In the context of increasing demand for renewable energy, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of maximizing the potential of solar power to drive sustainable economic growth and minimize negative environmental impacts.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh instructed the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the body responsible for drafting the decree, to quickly incorporate feedback from the meeting participants. The draft decree must be finalized and submitted to the Government for approval in the coming week. This is a significant step in promoting the development of self-produced, self-consumed rooftop solar systems in Vietnam, contributing to the country's transition to sustainable energy.

The Prime Minister stressed that the decree should not only encourage organizations and individuals to invest in rooftop solar but also ensure long-term economic benefits for them. One notable policy is the provision allowing investors to sell up to 20% of their installed capacity to the national grid at the average price of the previous year. This facilitates the optimization of energy usage and the full exploitation of renewable energy resources.

Additionally, the draft decree expands regulations on the trading and self-use of rooftop solar energy in industrial zones, export processing zones, economic zones, and high-tech zones. This is a suitable solution to promote production and business activities amid the global energy crisis, helping these areas become more self-sufficient in energy and reduce dependence on traditional grid supplies.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh also emphasized that relevant agencies must closely monitor development trends and actual demand, making appropriate adjustments to the planning when necessary. This is to ensure that policies supporting rooftop solar energy development remain aligned with the socio-economic growth trends and enhance Vietnam's competitive advantages in the renewable energy sector.

The meeting concluded with specific directives and the expectation that once issued, the decree would create a significant boost for the rooftop solar energy industry in Vietnam. It is hoped to encourage many businesses and individuals to participate in this trend, providing dual benefits for both the economy and the environment.