As the world accelerates its energy transition, Vietnam’s energy sector is also standing at a critical crossroads. Yet, this journey is not only about policies or technologies – it is equally about the connection between regulators, businesses, and the wider community. Within the framework of HVACR Vietnam 2025, the Share Your Voice initiative has created a platform for real voices to be heard. Among them is Ms. Nguyễn Thị Phương Yến, Deputy Director of the Center for Energy Information and Electricity Market Development (EAVCED).
Introduction to EAVCED and HVACR Vietnam
The Energy Information and Electricity Market Development Center (EAVCED) plays a pivotal role as a bridge in providing information, conducting in-depth research, and proposing solutions for developing a competitive and efficient electricity market in Vietnam. EAVCED is not only a hub for industry data but also a “launchpad” for dialogues that connect policy with business realities.
As part of its initiatives, HVACR Vietnam 2025 returns as a multi-dimensional platform where experts, policymakers, businesses, and investors come together to exchange ideas, foster collaboration, and shape the future of Vietnam’s energy sector. A key highlight of this year’s event is Share Your Voice – an open space to hear real stories and insights directly from industry insiders.
The Energy Transition: Not Just About Technology, But a Shift in Mindset
It is no coincidence that “energy transition” has become one of the most prominent keywords in recent years. Yet, according to Ms. Nguyễn Thị Phương Yến, Deputy Director of EAVCED, focusing solely on renewable energy or technological innovation is still not enough.
“Vietnam’s energy sector is entering a critical turning point – not only in terms of technology or the power mix, but more importantly, in the way we think about development. We are moving away from a mindset of prioritizing ‘cheap electricity prices’ toward a new perspective: electricity must be sustainable, reliable, and adaptable in the long term.”
This change in mindset raises an urgent question: how can Vietnam build a transparent and fair electricity market – one where investors feel secure to participate, and consumers also have a voice in choosing the sources of energy for the future?
Share Your Voice – A Journey of Listening and Co-Creation
More than just a forum, Share Your Voice has become a space for diverse perspectives to be heard, even when they differ. It is also where policy bottlenecks are examined through a practical lens.
From her industry experience, Ms. Phương Yến emphasized that expanding dialogue – where regulators and businesses sit together, share openly, and listen to each other – is the foundation for addressing long-standing challenges in the energy sector.
She cited an example related to wind power pricing mechanisms:
“A foreign company had planned to invest in a wind power project in Vietnam back in 2021, but to this day, it has not been able to proceed due to the lack of a specific electricity pricing framework. Meanwhile, many domestic companies are still entangled in lengthy procedures. Without consistent and transparent policy dialogue, the story of ‘energy transition’ risks becoming nothing more than a slogan on paper.”
- Market Mechanisms and the Capital Challenge
Securing sufficient capital is one of the biggest challenges to realizing Vietnam’s sustainable energy goals. But capital will not flow without trust in the market mechanism.
From a policy perspective, Ms. Phương Yến highlighted that attracting private investment in electricity requires a market that operates on the principles of competition, transparency, and fairness. Only when electricity prices are formed according to true market mechanisms can businesses plan effectively, banks release financing, and consumers ultimately benefit in the long run.
This calls for bold reforms – not only in pricing mechanisms, but also in transmission, distribution infrastructure, and in creating space for participation from diverse economic players.
- The Growing Role of Private Enterprises
Another noteworthy point is the rising role of the private sector, especially in rooftop solar, virtual power plants, and energy efficiency initiatives.
With growing interest in rooftop solar, Ms. Phương Yến emphasized that private enterprises are becoming an essential driving force in the transition process. However, inconsistent or unclear policies may leave even the most committed businesses feeling sidelined.
“We need to recognize them not just as electricity consumers, but as true partners in building a modern and flexible power system,” she noted.
A 365-Day Journey – Beyond a Single Event
HVACR Vietnam 2025 is more than just a week-long exhibition – it represents a 365-day journey of developing mindsets, solutions, and connections. With initiatives like Share Your Voice, the event is gradually shaping a sustainable dialogue platform where every voice matters and every stakeholder can walk the journey together.
“We cannot wait for a perfect top-down solution. This journey requires collective action – not only from regulators or investors, but also from every citizen who uses electricity daily and will be directly affected by the decisions made today,” Ms. Phương Yến emphasized.
Conclusion
The future of Vietnam’s energy sector is opening many doors – but only if we dare to dialogue, dare to change, and dare to act. Voices like those of Ms. Nguyễn Thị Phương Yến not only bring sharper perspectives on the big picture but also shed light on practical pathways for Vietnam’s energy transition toward greater sustainability, transparency, and long-term growth.
