Strengthening communication to ensure public awareness and proper implementation

RSP is considered one of the key solutions to help Ho Chi Minh City save electricity, ease supply pressure during the dry season, and enhance energy self-reliance.

According to EVNHCMC, many RSPs achieve payback within approximately 2.5–5 years, depending on capacity and electricity consumption. Illustrative image

In response, Ho Chi Minh City Power Corporation (EVNHCMC) has been implementing a series of synchronized measures to promote the development of this clean energy source in 2026 and beyond.

Speaking to Industry and Trade Newspaper, Mr. Bui Trung Kien, Deputy General Director of EVNHCMC, noted that the RSP market in the city has recently begun to become active again. This is a positive signal as the city accelerates the implementation of Directive No. 10 on energy economics and efficiency, as well as renewable energy development. The target is to have about 10% more households install RSPs each year. However, several barriers still need to be addressed to achieve this goal.

According to EVNHCMC leadership, one of the reasons many households remain hesitant is due to concerns about effectiveness, equipment lifespan, safety, and whether installation procedures are complicated.

Recognizing these challenges, EVNHCMC identifies communication as a key solution at this stage. The corporation is strengthening outreach through newspapers, television, specialized seminars, and various communication channels to provide information on investment efficiency, equipment selection, and technical considerations during installation.

In addition to indirect communication, EVNHCMC is also enhancing direct communication through customer service applications, websites, fanpages, and digital platforms, enabling customers to quickly access information, submit inquiries, and receive timely responses.

For residential customers, EVNHCMC has assigned dedicated customer service teams to handle inquiries and provide tailored consultation based on each household’s electricity usage needs.

Beyond communication, EVNHCMC is also ready to offer technical consulting, recommending appropriate system sizes based on electricity consumption and user demand, from individual households to businesses and production facilities.

Coordinating with authorities and simplifying procedures

Alongside communication efforts, EVNHCMC is closely coordinating with the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade and the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee to implement various supportive measures.

A notable initiative is the plan to install RSPs at government offices and public buildings. EVNHCMC leadership expects that in 2026, a large number of public offices in the city will adopt RSP, creating a strong ripple effect for residents and businesses.

Additionally, EVNHCMC is working with local departments and international partners to develop a RSP potential map. This tool will help residents and businesses identify suitable areas, solar radiation levels, and the most effective investment options.

According to EVNHCMC leadership, this is an important step toward making investment decisions more transparent, scientific, and practical.

Regarding administrative procedures, Mr. Bui Trung Kien affirmed that the process for households is currently very simple. Residents only need to notify EVNHCMC of their RSP installation so that the utility can update data and manage grid operations.

Customers can submit notifications via the EVNHCMC customer service website or through the Ho Chi Minh City public service portal, with prompt responses from the power utility.

Proposing financial support mechanisms and quality management

In addition to immediate solutions, EVNHCMC also recommends long-term mechanisms to ensure the sustainable development of the RSP market.

According to Mr. Bui Trung Kien, the investment cost for an RSP currently ranges from approximately VND 50–100 million, depending on scale. This is a significant expense for many households, even though the payback period is relatively short—typically around 2.5–5 years depending on capacity and electricity consumption.

Therefore, EVNHCMC proposes studying support policies such as tax incentives, green credit programs, or personal income tax reductions for investors, similar to those implemented in some regional countries.

The corporation also calls for regulatory agencies to soon complete the legal framework for managing the quality of photovoltaic panels, energy storage systems, and standardize installation contractors.

A notable development is the rapid improvement and declining cost of energy storage technology. When combined with RSPs, battery storage allows households to use stored electricity at night and reduce peak load pressure on the grid.

As the country’s largest economic hub, Ho Chi Minh City has consistently high electricity demand for production, commerce, and daily life. Therefore, developing rooftop solar is not only a solution for saving electricity but also a strategic approach to ensuring urban energy security.

Translator: Thu Hường