GE partners with ERAV on development of wind power into the national grid

The project is funded by the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) under the Grant Agreement between the US Government and the ERAV.

In attendance at the event were Vice Minister of MOIT Ho Thi Kim Thoa; Vice Chairman of GE, President & CEO of GE Global Growth & Operations, John Rice; and several other government officials of Vietnam and the U.S

Initially, GE will contribute technical assistance that will assist the MoIT, and particularly the ERAV, to understand the requirements for preparing the grid system for the successful integration of wind power. The study will provide valuable insights into grid stress and stability and will evaluate the reliability of long term wind forecasting. In addition to providing consultancy, GE will also help train the local work force to support the development of wind power.

“As the world leader in renewable energy development, GE is pleased to support Vietnam’s pursuit of sustainable energy as a new way forward. This agreement will lay the foundation for Vietnam to exploit its great potential in wind energy which in turn will contribute to the improvement of the country’s energy infrastructure,” said John Rice, vice chairman of GE. “The project will also be helpful in creating a simple straight forward regulatory process, something we are strong advocates for.”

Ho Thi Kim Thoa, the MoIT’s Deputy Minister said: “Exploring the current issues relevant to the growth of Vietnam power system, with particular attention to the integration of renewable energy sources and enhanced operation and intelligence of the grid are critical for Vietnam to ensure sustainable development of the power industry. We highly appreciate GE as an excellent partner for this important project considering its global experience in consultation and implementation of energy project.”

According to a study conducted by the International Energy Agency and the World Bank in Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, Vietnam has the greatest capacity to utilise wind to generate energy; up to 8.6 per cent of the country’s land area has been evaluated as either "good" to "very good" for building large wind power stations. However, the current development of wind power in Vietnam is a fraction of its potential.

“We are pleased to support this effort to help develop Vietnam’s abundant wind resources,” said USTDA director Leocadia I. Zak.  “This contract demonstrates the practical benefits of collaboration between U.S. industry and the governments of the US and Vietnam in achieving sustainable energy growth for Vietnam’s expanding economy.”

The signing ceremony coincides with the company’s 20th year of operation in Vietnam, affirming GE’s commitment to long-term development through what it describes as ‘company-to-country’ partnership.