Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien has emphasized the necessity of special policies and legal frameworks to facilitate the implementation of the Ninh Thuan nuclear power project.

Given the project’s large scale and technological complexity, along with Vietnam’s lack of experience in nuclear energy, a strong and clear legal foundation is required to ensure smooth execution.

National Assembly discusses special mechanisms

On the morning of February 17, discussions were held regarding the special mechanisms needed for the Ninh Thuan nuclear power project. Many delegates stressed the importance of developing a skilled workforce for both implementation and long-term operation.

A necessary and forward-thinking decision

Delegate Duong Khac Mai (Dak Nong) noted that several countries are expanding their nuclear energy programs, constructing and upgrading reactors to increase electricity production. Many nations are also exploring nuclear energy as a new power source to enhance energy security and reduce carbon emissions.

Mai argued that Vietnam’s pursuit of nuclear energy is both necessary and inevitable. He emphasized that the National Assembly’s approval of special policies for the Ninh Thuan nuclear power project aligns with practical needs and modern global energy trends.

“This is a groundbreaking policy to develop nuclear power and promote nuclear energy for peaceful and developmental purposes in Vietnam,” he stated.

Mai called on the government to conduct comprehensive risk assessments, prepare thoroughly across all aspects, and establish transparent, effective, and sustainable management policies. He also highlighted the importance of workforce training, urging the government to devise concrete and practical plans to build human resources for the project.

Support for "turnkey contracts" and direct contractor selection

Delegate Trinh Thi Tu Anh (Lam Dong) expressed support for certain special mechanisms, such as using a "turnkey contract" model, which would suit Vietnam’s current conditions. She also endorsed a streamlined direct contractor selection process for capable partners who can operate and maintain the plant for at least five years.

However, Tu Anh emphasized the need for long-term planning in contractor selection. She suggested that Vietnam secure technology transfer agreements, technical services, and training programs with nuclear power plant technology providers. Additionally, she proposed aligning workforce training with guidelines from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), requiring at least 1,200 skilled personnel per plant to cover all operational phases.

Ninh Thuan’s readiness for the project

Trinh Quoc Nam, Chairman of the Ninh Thuan Provincial People’s Committee, stated that the province has been prepared for the project for over 15 years. He assured that local residents only seek better living conditions and stability when relocated for the project.

“Ninh Thuan has been proactive, taking immediate action wherever possible without delay. The provincial government, project investors, and relevant ministries have been working decisively to ensure that the first plant is operational by December 31, 2031, at the latest,” Nam affirmed.

The province has proposed special mechanisms for land clearance, compensation, and support for affected residents, recognizing that land clearance is a time-consuming and challenging process. If carried out under existing legal regulations, it would be impossible to complete within a year.

Strong policies needed to ensure project completion

In response, Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien acknowledged the feedback from delegates and adjusted the proposal to reference only the “project investor” while also adding Ninh Thuan Province and the designated project preparation unit as applicable entities.

He stated that any additional special policies required for the project would be researched further by the government and submitted for approval.

Dien reiterated that due to the project’s massive scale and technical complexity, Vietnam needs a parliamentary resolution to establish a strong legal foundation for its implementation.

"Once approved by the National Assembly, these special mechanisms and policies will facilitate the simultaneous execution of various project components, significantly accelerating progress," he stated.

To meet the goal of completing the project by 2030-2031 and ensuring national energy security, Vietnam must establish these policies promptly. This will also contribute to the country’s economic development and serve as a milestone to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Communist Party’s founding and the 85th anniversary of the nation’s establishment.

Dien assured that he and other key officials would continue refining the draft resolution, incorporating all relevant feedback before presenting it to the National Assembly for final approval. If additional adjustments are needed during project implementation, the government will continue to report to the National Assembly for further consideration and decision-making.

Clarifying investment responsibilities

Regarding concerns about naming specific investors, particularly EVN and PVN, Le Manh Hung, Chairman of PetroVietnam (PVN), argued that it is essential to specify the project’s lead investor to ensure clear accountability.

Hung also stressed that financial mechanisms must be clearly defined, particularly regarding state-owned enterprises like EVN and PVN, which are fully government-owned. He pointed out that clear financial regulations are necessary to prevent the project from interfering with the companies’ other responsibilities.

Assuring that the project will be closely monitored by the IAEA and benefit from extensive global experience in large-scale nuclear projects, Hung called on the National Assembly to approve and finalize the special mechanisms needed to ensure smooth execution.

Thu Hang