Working session between World Bank and EVN on implementation progress of Huoi Quang Hydropower Expansion and Don Duong Pumped-Storage Hydropower Projects

The objective of the meeting was to explore coordination mechanisms and joint solutions to carry out necessary appraisals that meet the internal requirements of the World Bank Group (WBG) for financing eligibility. The discussions focused on aligning project scope, methodology, sequencing, and clearly assigning responsibilities between the parties during the project preparation phase. This is essential to ensure consistency between WBG’s internal processes, the Vietnamese Government’s procedures, and EVN’s project development timeline

The two sides exchanged updates on the preparation of the Huoi Quang Expansion Project (Son La Province) and the Don Duong Pumped-Storage Project (Lam Dong Province), particularly in relation to mobilizing ODA loans and non-refundable aid sources.

Regarding key barriers such as investment policy approval and financial mechanism frameworks, the WB representative noted that efforts are underway to streamline internal procedures related to environmental, social, procurement, and financial management in a manner more aligned with Vietnamese regulations. This would help accelerate the project preparation process while still adhering to essential compliance requirements.

In terms of resettlement and land clearance, the two parties acknowledged certain differences between Vietnamese environmental and social standards and World Bank safeguard policies. EVN expressed its hope that the World Bank would consider appropriate mechanisms to facilitate the next steps in project implementation.

Looking ahead, both sides plan to advance project progress through continued coordination with the Ministry of Finance, local authorities, and on-site surveys to determine required activities and develop a detailed implementation plan — particularly for the Don Duong Pumped-Storage Project. The shared goal is to complete all necessary financial procedures to allow groundbreaking of the Huoi Quang Expansion Project in Q4/2026 and the Don Duong Pumped-Storage Project in Q2/2027.

Translator: Hoàng Duy Khánh