Ho Chi Minh City plans to invest approximately VN?650 billion ($25.2 million) to install rooftop solar power systems with a combined capacity of over 43 megawatts (MW) across 438 public administrative agencies, according to Nguy?n Th? Kim Ng?c, Deputy Director of the municipal Department of Industry and Trade. The announcement was made during a seminar on clean energy and cost-saving solutions for residents and businesses in the city on April 10.

Installing rooftop solar power systems.

Ng?c stated: “The municipal People's Committee has recently approved the project, which will benefit administrative agencies, public service units, and offices of agencies and organisations classified as public assets.” The initiative will proceed with investors selecting contractors for design and installation following the committee’s preliminary approval.

The project seeks to maximize the city’s rooftop solar potential to boost clean energy adoption. It aims to reduce greenhouse gas and CO2 emissions, lower building heat radiation, and support Vi?t Nam’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as pledged at the COP26 Conference. By harnessing solar energy, the initiative contributes to sustainable urban development and environmental goals.

Ng?c further noted: “The proportion of renewable energy sources to the maximum capacity of the city's electricity system is expected to reach at least 15 per cent during the 2025-30 period.” This aligns with Vi?t Nam’s national energy strategy, which targets sustainable growth through 2030 with a vision extending to 2045. The city also aims for at least 50% of office buildings to have rooftop solar panels by 2030, ensuring a reliable electricity supply.

The municipal Department of Industry and Trade estimates Ho Chi Minh City’s rooftop solar potential at approximately 5,081 MW by 2030, with over 166 MW feasible for administrative and public service buildings. Bùi Trung Kiên, Deputy General Director of Ho Chi Minh City Power Corporation (EVNHCMC), highlighted past progress, stating: “Before 2021, the city’s electricity sector managed over 14,000 rooftop solar systems with a total capacity of about 350 MWp.”

Kiên added that solar power generation is expected to grow significantly as major enterprises and factories, particularly in the Southeast Industrial Park, continue to adopt rooftop solar systems. This expansion reflects the city’s commitment to integrating renewable energy into its infrastructure, supporting both economic and environmental objectives while meeting the rising demand for clean and stable power.