Russia’s Novatek, a major player in the natural gas sector, has engaged in high-level discussions with Vietnam Electricity (EVN) concerning the development of integrated Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)-to-power projects within Vietnam. These crucial conversations covered a comprehensive range of collaboration areas, from the supply of LNG to the establishment of necessary receiving and regasification infrastructure, and ultimately, the development of power generation facilities.
The meeting in Hanoi saw EVN deputy general director Nguyen Tai Anh engage with a delegation from Novatek. Leading the Russian contingent was Sergey G. Soloviev, vice chairman of the board and director of prospective projects. Novatek expressed its keen interest in contributing to Vietnam’s evolving energy market, emphasizing an integrated approach that encompasses the entire LNG-to-power value chain.
Nguyen Tai Anh provided the Novatek delegation with an overview of Vietnam’s recently revised Power Development Plan VIII. This strategic document identifies LNG-fired generation as an essential element in the nation’s ongoing energy transition. EVN underscored the complex, yet vital, nature of these projects, noting the necessity for coordinated development across LNG receiving terminals, storage and regasification facilities, robust grid connections, and specific site implementation considerations.
Particular attention was given to the planning of LNG infrastructure for northern Vietnam. This planning phase must meticulously consider geological conditions, existing port capabilities, potential locations for LNG receiving hubs, and viable gas supply options to support future power clusters in the region. The discussions also delved into international best practices in LNG development, various gas-to-power value chain models, and the specific technical requirements for power projects intended to utilize LNG.
Novatek indicated its readiness to continue these dialogues with EVN and other relevant Vietnamese stakeholders. The company is prepared to explore technical solutions, potential cooperation models, and opportunities for participation in energy projects that align with Vietnam’s national development objectives.
The engagement on LNG-to-power projects extended beyond EVN, with Novatek representatives also meeting with officials from Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade. Deputy Minister Nguyen Hoang Long led the discussions for the ministry, joined by representatives from the Electricity Authority, the Oil, Gas and Coal Department, and the Foreign Market Development Department. Trinh Minh Hoang, deputy chairman of Khanh Hoa province’s People’s Committee, also participated in these proceedings.
The Ministry of Industry and Trade highlighted Novatek’s prior engagements with both EVN and Petrovietnam, noting that these earlier meetings also focused on LNG development, gas-to-power value chains, and the technical specifications for gas-fired power projects. These initiatives are particularly pertinent as Vietnam seeks to enhance the flexibility, stability, and load-response capabilities of its national power system.
Deputy Minister Nguyen Hoang Long welcomed Novatek’s expressed interest in Vietnam’s energy sector. He conveyed the ministry’s willingness to support the company as it investigates investment and business cooperation prospects and establishes connections with Vietnamese partners. Vietnam’s Power Development Plan VIII explicitly includes provisions for LNG-to-power projects in key locations such as Hai Phong, Thanh Hoa, Khanh Hoa, Ninh Thuan, and Ho Chi Minh City.
