1,108 small hydropower projects, widespread and dense planning
The National Assembly's Committee on Science, Technology and Environment has just reported the initial results of monitoring the implementation of policies and laws on hydropower development to National Assembly deputies.
Inspection delegation of Song Tranh 2 Hydropower Plant in January 2013
The report shows that the quality of planning and development of hydropower, especially small hydropower, still has many shortcomings. Initial statistics show that the total installed capacity of small hydropower plants accounts for only 30% of the planning but there are a very large number of projects: 1,108 projects. Of which, about 40% of the projects in this planning must be eliminated or no investors are interested. Notably, most of the hydropower projects eliminated from the planning are of low economic efficiency, and investors proactively return them.
A typical example of dense hydropower planning is in the Ma River area: with a distance of more than 100km, there are seven hydropower projects. The Serepok River has 11 large hydropower projects, the Se San River has six large hydropower projects and many other projects are currently being implemented and researched for investment.
In addition, public consultation with affected subjects is limited. As a result, some projects affect the environment, production and daily life of people in downstream areas, even causing water depletion, reducing biodiversity, reducing soil fertility, and causing saltwater intrusion.
The Committee on Science, Technology and Environment recommends that the Ministry of Industry and Trade review the master plan for hydropower development and resolutely stop and eliminate hydropower projects that do not meet requirements.
According to Tuoi Tre - TH
