Power System Flexibility Analysis for Energy Pathways in Vietnam

Abstract

Abstract As Vietnam increases the amount of variable renewable energy such as solar and wind in the electricity system, technical challenges regarding balancing the load and generation at all times arises. This paper models six potential energy pathways and their respective power flexibility to investigate possible issues such as curtailment and loss of load and recommendations on how best to address them. Based on the results, main insights are highlighted, with the aim of providing key stakeholders in energy policy strong modelling analysis on potential and practical energy mix alternatives over the next 20–30 years. Modelling suggests that an uptake of renewable energy will allow Vietnam to achieve its climate commitments, with hydropower as baseload, wind as intermediate load, and solar as peak load. To address variable renewable energy curtailment from wind and solar, electric vehicle charging may be incorporated into the electricity grid. Sustainable biomass may also be utilized fully to avoid use of intermittent renewable energy. This paper concludes the key findings with recommendations on achieving the optimal pathway for the development of Vietnam’s energy sector.