Vietnam

Recognizing the potential of hydrogen in achieving its decarbonization goals, Vietnam has set forth an ambitious hydrogen development strategy. The country plans to produce between 100,000 and 500,000 metric tons of hydrogen annually by 2030, escalating to 10–20 million tons by 2050. [1] The focus is primarily on green hydrogen, produced through renewable energy-powered electrolysis.

Hydrogen applications are envisioned across various sectors, including power generation, transportation and industries. By 2050, hydrogen is expected to contribute to 10 per cent of the country’s electricity generation. [2]

Vietnam has officially adopted a national Hydrogen Energy Strategy as part of its broader commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The strategy, effective from February 2024, outlines a roadmap for developing a comprehensive hydrogen ecosystem that includes production, storage, transportation, distribution, and utilization. By 2030, Vietnam aims to produce between 100,000 and 500,000 tons of hydrogen annually, primarily through the adoption of advanced global technologies and the integration of carbon capture, storage, and utilization (CCS/CCUS) with hydrogen production from fossil fuels like coal and natural gas.

Looking ahead to 2050, the country envisions scaling up hydrogen production to between 10 and 20 million tons per year. The strategy emphasizes mastering and localizing hydrogen and CCS/CCUS technologies, establishing a robust industrial ecosystem for renewable and green hydrogen, and positioning Vietnam as a regional hub for hydrogen exports. To achieve these goals, the government plans to foster public-private partnerships, create supportive regulatory frameworks, and engage in international cooperation for technology transfer and market development. This strategy marks a significant step in Vietnam’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

The strategy emphasizes integrating hydrogen development with the national energy transition roadmap, ensuring alignment with global technological advancements and market trends.

Vietnam possesses significant renewable energy resources:

• Solar Energy: The country has a technical potential of up to 963 GW for solar power, with high irradiation levels, especially in the central and southern regions. [1]

• Wind Energy: Vietnam’s coastline and highlands offer a wind power potential exceeding 311 GW, making it one of the most promising markets for wind energy in Southeast Asia. [2]

• Hydropower: With an operational capacity of about 20,000 MW, hydropower remains a substantial component of Vietnam’s renewable energy portfolio. [3]

While Vietnam currently lacks a domestic manufacturing base for hydrogen technologies, the government’s strategy includes: [1]

• Encouraging local industries: For the production of hydrogen equipment.

• Facilitating technology transfer: Through international partnerships.

• Establishing R&D centers: Focused on hydrogen technologies.

Vietnam is witnessing a surge in green hydrogen project proposals:

• Tra Vinh Green Hydrogen Project: Initiated by The Green Solutions Group Corp. (TGS) in March 2023, this is Vietnam’s first green hydrogen facility in the Mekong Delta. The plant aims for an annual production capacity of 24,000 metric tons, with a two-year construction timeline and a budget of $327.7 million. Honeywell has entered a memorandum of understanding with TGS to supply equipment for this initiative. [1]

• Ninh Thuan Green Energy Complex: Trungnam Group plans to develop a green energy complex with an expected green hydrogen capacity of 824,400 tons per year in the south-central province of Ninh Thuan. [2]

• Proposed $2 Billion Green Hydrogen Project: A consortium of Italian and Chinese firms has proposed a green hydrogen project in Ninh Thuan province, aiming to leverage the region’s renewable energy resources. [3]