Cooperation in the energy sector between Vietnam and Laos in recent years has contributed to further strengthening the friendship between the two countries.

Mr. Vongsakoun YingYong, General Director of EDL (3rd from right) and Laotian  delegation working at EVN

Implementing the energy cooperation policy of the two governments, EVN and EDL are currently continuing to promote preparations for purchasing electricity from the Nam Mu 5 Hydropower Plant (HPP) project in Laos to sell electricity to Vietnam. The Nam Mu 5 HPP has a total capacity of 240MW and has been in commercial operation since 2017.

At the meeting, Vice President Ngo Son Hai and General Director Vongsakoun YingYong discussed in detail the tasks that need to be implemented related to bringing electricity to Vietnam: investment in the construction of a 220kV double-circuit transmission line from Nam Mu 5 HPP to Dien Bien, power purchase contracts, technical connections, etc. At the same time, they discussed the possibility of buying and selling electricity with other potential hydropower projects in Laos.

EVN Vice President Ngo Son Hai (3rd from right) works with EDL delegation

For specific tasks, the two sides will establish joint working groups to regularly exchange and closely coordinate information, ensuring effective cooperation; and promptly report to the Ministries, branches, and Governments of the two countries when implementing the co-operated work items.

EVN and EDL also agreed to continue to promote cooperation and organize annual agendas and meetings of senior leaders of the two sides.

Energy cooperation between Vietnam and Laos stems from the practical needs of the two countries. Laos has great potential in the field of hydropower, investors of power projects in Laos wish to sell electricity to Vietnam. For Vietnam, importing electricity, especially electricity from Laos directly to the Northern region, is one of the effective solutions to ensure power supply security.

Translator: Mạnh Hùng