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Vietnam Grid Buckles Under Heatwave Strain
27 May
Summary
- Vietnam's power grid is under immense pressure due to a severe heatwave.
- El Nino's potential return from July 2026 poses further risks of heatwaves and droughts.
- Power cuts are disrupting life in Hanoi, with residents seeking relief in hotels.
A severe heatwave currently gripping Vietnam has placed significant strain on the nation's power grid. Temperatures in northern regions have consistently neared 40 degrees Celsius (104°F), causing abnormal electricity demand. Residents in Hanoi have reported multiple power outages nightly, impacting daily life and sleep. The Ministry of Industry has indicated that the situation could deteriorate further with the anticipated return of El Nino from July 2026, raising the possibility of prolonged heatwaves and droughts.
These extreme weather conditions exacerbate existing challenges for Vietnam's energy infrastructure, which relies heavily on coal and hydropower. Low water levels in hydroelectric reservoirs already limit generation capacity, and increased electricity consumption late in the evenings further strains the system when solar power is unavailable. The government is urging households and businesses, particularly in northern areas, to conserve power to mitigate the crisis and ensure a stable supply.
