Expediting Progress on the 500kV Hai Phong – Thai Binh Power Line Project: Ensuring Northern Vietnam's Energy Security

Hai Phong, August 30, 2025 – The 500kV Hai Phong – Thai Binh power line project, a crucial segment of the 500kV Circuit 3 power line from Quang Trach to Pho Noi, is being urgently expedited by leaders and construction units. Aiming for energization in Q4 2025, this project is not only a special-grade energy infrastructure but also a key factor in enhancing energy security, stabilizing the power grid, and fostering socio-economic development in Northern Vietnam.

Project Overview and Strategic Importance

The 500kV Hai Phong – Thai Binh power line project involves the construction of two new 500kV transmission circuits, with a total line length of 38.3 km. The starting point of the project is the 500kV busbar of the Hai Phong 500kV Substation, and the end point is the Thai Binh 500kV Substation. This is one of the component projects of the 500kV Circuit 3 chain, which commenced construction on August 17, 2025, with a total investment of nearly 1,916 billion VND.

The strategic importance of the project is clearly demonstrated through the following objectives:

• Strengthening Grid Connectivity: Enhancing the connectivity and flexible operation of the 500kV power grid in the Northern region, especially among major load centers.
• Ensuring Power Supply: Transmitting full capacity to meet the load demand of Hai Phong, Hung Yen, and surrounding areas according to the N-1 criterion, minimizing the risk of power shortages.
• Improving Voltage Quality: Enhancing voltage quality and reducing technical losses on the transmission grid, contributing to more efficient energy utilization.
• Increasing Safety and Stability: Boosting the reliability, safety, and stability of the national power system, particularly in the context of increasing electricity demand.

The completion of the project will create a robust power transmission corridor, supporting the development of industrial zones and urban areas, where industrial applications demand stable and high-quality power supply.

Current Progress and Challenges to Overcome

As of now, construction work is being carried out with high intensity. 20 out of 27 foundation sites have been handed over, allowing contractors to concentrate human resources and equipment to accelerate progress. However, the biggest challenge remains site clearance in some remaining localities. Delays in site clearance could directly impact the target of energization in Q4 2025.

The Chairman of the Member Board of the National Power Transmission Corporation (EVNNPT) has directly inspected and urged progress at the construction site, requiring the Northern Power Project Management Board (NPMB) and contractors to meticulously control the progress of each package, ensuring technical quality, labor safety, and environmental protection. These requirements are paramount to prevent incidents and ensure efficient operation in the future. Materials such as steel and aluminum with superior physical properties used in power line and tower construction must adhere to strict technical standards.

Role of Stakeholders and Collaborative Efforts

The project is implemented under the direction of EVNNPT as the investor, with NPMB responsible for project management and administration. Upon completion, Power Transmission Company 1 will take over and operate the line. Close coordination among these entities is a key factor. In particular, the role of the People's Committees of communes in Hai Phong and Hung Yen in accelerating site clearance is indispensable. Regular review meetings and decisive directives from local authorities have been instrumental in resolving bottlenecks and keeping the project on track.

Long-Term Impact and Future Outlook

Once operational, the 500kV Hai Phong – Thai Binh power line will not only address local power shortages but also lay the groundwork for the sustainable development of the region. It will open opportunities to attract investment, develop industries and services, and improve the quality of life for residents through a stable and reliable power supply. This is a testament to Vietnam's commitment to modernizing its energy infrastructure, meeting long-term socio-economic development needs.

Conclusion

The 500kV Hai Phong – Thai Binh power line project is a national key project, bearing immense strategic significance for energy security and economic development in Northern Vietnam. Despite facing challenges in site clearance, with the decisive direction of the Government, the efforts of EVNNPT, NPMB, and the coordination of local authorities, the project is being expedited to meet its schedule. Successful energization by the end of 2025 will be a crucial milestone, contributing to the robust reinforcement of the national power system.