Vietnam aims to generate 800 MW of wind power by 2020 and 6,000 MW by 2030. However, the development of wind power remains slow. Only seven projects with total capacity of 190 MW have been put into operation.

Deputy head of the department for electricity and renewable energy under the Ministry of Industry and Trade Nguyen Van Thanh attributed the slow development to the difficult use of land and capital, restrictions in accessing new technologies, and unattractive wind power prices.

The ministry hoped to hear experience from renewable energy groups, companies and experts to develop wind and solar power in different areas, thus giving advice to the Government in mapping out electricity development plans and strategies to ensure energy security and emission reduction.

It also expected to receive the active support from the German and Danish governments and international organisations in building plans to develop the energy sector in general and renewable energy in particular.

Steve Sawyer, Secretary General of Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), hoped to support Vietnam in gaining benefits from wind power as a clean energy with reasonable prices to serve the country’s economic growth, energy security, cutting-edge technology development, and job generation.

The council said it is willing to assist Vietnam in further developing the wind power sector and suggested the Southeast Asian country establish a competent national wind power association to tap the maximum benefits from this abundant natural resource.

According to representatives from the German international cooperation agency, Vietnam should standardise trade contracts for wind power projects and simplify procedures for project approval