Vietnam’s Largest City Commits to Solar Power with $25.2M Rooftop Project on 438 Government Sites

Ho Chi Minh City will invest nearly 650 billion VND (USD 25.2 million) to install rooftop solar power systems on 438 public administrative facilities, according to Nguyen Thi Kim Ngoc, Deputy Director of the city's Department of Industry and Trade.

The project—approved by the People’s Committee—targets government offices and public service units, with a combined capacity exceeding 43 MW. Contractors will be selected following in-principle approval by city authorities.

Aimed at supporting Vietnam’s net-zero by 2050 pledge, the initiative will help cut greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate heat radiation in buildings. By 2030, the city aims to equip at least 50% of its public offices with rooftop solar and reach 15% renewable energy share in its power mix.

Ngoc added that Ho Chi Minh City has the potential to generate over 5,000 MW from rooftop systems by 2030, including 166 MW from public sector buildings alone.

The Ho Chi Minh City Power Corporation (EVNHCMC) reported over 14,000 rooftop systems with 350 MWp capacity were already in place before 2021, and more installations are expected from enterprises and industrial parks.