The adoption of rooftop solar power in industrial parks (IPs) is increasingly seen as a strategic move — not only safeguarding national energy security but also promoting sustainable development. However, implementation still faces many hurdles, especially high upfront investment costs — a major challenge for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which make up a significant proportion of IPs. – VPNA
Rooftop Solar Power: Practical Benefits, Tangible Results
In reality, rooftop solar power brings a range of benefits to businesses. In addition to reducing electricity bills, it enhances corporate image by supporting green branding and environmental friendliness.
At the forum “Promoting Green Energy in Industrial Parks”, held by VCCI on May 15, Mr. Nguyễn Ngọc Trung — Deputy Director of the Sectoral Economy Department, Central Policy and Strategy Committee — emphasized that rooftop solar is a promising solution, aligned with the current trend of energy transition and in need of supportive policy mechanisms.
With over 380 industrial parks and around 700 industrial clusters currently operating, Vietnam is a hotspot for electricity demand. According to Mr. Trung, the rooftop solar installation potential in IPs could reach 12 to 20 GWp — equivalent to the capacity of more than 10 traditional coal power plants. Utilizing existing factory roofs for solar systems helps conserve land resources and aligns with the direction of developing decentralized energy systems.
Moreover, on-site electricity generation can ease pressure on the national grid, especially during peak hours, and support Vietnam’s commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions under COP26, thereby contributing to sustainable economic growth.
Policy Support in Progress
In recent years, several policies have been introduced to boost renewable energy development. Resolution 55/2020 of the Politburo, the National Energy Development Strategy to 2045 (issued in March 2024), and Power Development Plan VIII (PDP8) are key milestones demonstrating Vietnam’s strong commitment to a cleaner, more modern energy system.
Notably, PDP8 recently revised its 2030 targets, aiming for 50% of households and workplaces to self-generate electricity via rooftop solar systems. Additionally, the share of renewable energy in the electricity mix is targeted to reach 25–30% by 2030 and approximately 74–75% by 2050 — signaling a major transition in the power sector.
Two newly issued decrees — Decree 57/2025/ND-CP on Direct Power Purchase Agreements (DPPA), and Decree 58/2025/ND-CP on investment incentives — are expected to unlock financial resources for rooftop solar development. Specifically, Decree 57 allows large enterprises to purchase electricity directly from producers, while Decree 58 provides land rental exemptions, energy storage support, and encourages technology transfer.
Barriers to Overcome
Despite the enormous potential and improving policy framework, Mr. Trung candidly pointed out several remaining obstacles. First, inconsistencies in legal regulations complicate procedures for grid connection and system operation. High initial investment costs also deter many businesses, especially SMEs.
Infrastructure in many IPs is not yet suitable for distributed energy development; bi-directional electricity meters are lacking, and businesses often have limited awareness and technical capacity regarding renewable energy.
To address these issues, Mr. Trung suggested issuing detailed implementation guidelines for the new decrees, particularly for self-generation and self-consumption models within IPs. Financial mechanisms — such as tax incentives, green credit, and accelerated depreciation of solar assets — should be promoted. Additionally, the ESCO model, where a third-party company invests in and leases back the solar system, should be scaled up.
On the infrastructure side, he called for collaboration between IP developers and the power sector to upgrade the grid, install smart meters, and enable flexible solar integration. Training for technicians and strengthening operational capacity of renewable systems are also essential. Finally, public-private partnerships and attracting ODA and international concessional financing are seen as key to the sustainable growth of green energy projects.
Businesses Seek Financial Support
The shift to clean energy is becoming increasingly urgent, especially in industries with high electricity consumption.
– VPNA – Rooftop Solar Power
