Free emission evaluation for motorbikes in Hanoi (Photo: VNA) Dr. Do Nam Thang, an expert in environment and climatechange at the Australian National University, told the Vietnam News Agency(VNA)’s correspondent in Sydney that through the commitment made by PrimeMinister Pham Minh Chinh at the conference, Vietnam has joined hands with about140 other countries worldwide to achieve the target of net zero emissions by2050.
Despite a range of challenges, Vietnam hasopportunities to realise the commitment, he said, suggesting the country devisea specific, feasible plan to reach the target.
Thang cited a recent study by the Australian NationalUniversity as showing that Vietnam has potential to produce 90 percent of itselectricity from wind and solar power.
The country’s initial successes in solar and windpower development, especially offshore wind energy, should be further promoted.
According to the World Bank, Vietnam's offshore wind power potential is estimated at about 475 GW in its territorial waters 200 km from thecoastline, about eight times higher than the country’s capacity in 2020.
By gradually replacing coal-fired electricity, this could help reduce over 200 million metric tonnes of CO2 emissions and add at least 50 billion USD to Vietnam’s economy from a strong local supply chain, more jobs, and exports.
Therefore, Vietnam’s Power Development Plan for the2021 - 2030 period (PDP VIII) should increase the ratio of wind and solarpower, the expert suggested.
Thang also highlighted the significance ofinternational cooperation, which, he said, would help Vietnam utilise renewableenergy development opportunities and shift towards the green economy./.
VNA
