The meeting was attended by Vice Chairmen of the provincial People’s Committee Nguyen Thanh Cong and Nguyen Minh Tien, along with leaders of relevant departments and several investors.

At the session, Cong presented an update on the adjustment and inclusion of power generation and grid projects in the provincial master plan for the 2021-2030 period, with a vision to 2050. According to the plan, Son La aims to develop 5,112.65 MW of electricity from wind, solar, small hydropower, biomass, and waste-to-energy sources.

By 2030, an additional 6,273.2 MW is expected to be added, including small hydropower, wind power, pumped-storage hydropower, rooftop solar, centralised solar, and biomass. Between 2031 and 2035, the province plans to allocate a further 1,511.2 MW, primarily from small hydropower, pumped-storage hydropower, and floating solar on the on La hydropower reservoir.

So far, the provincial People’s Committee has approved investment policies for 14 out of 17 small hydropower projects. Larger-scale projects - including wind, solar, and pumped-storage hydropower - are currently under appraisal, pending submission to the provincial People’s Council for bidding approval.

Regarding the power grid, several key projects have been completed, including the 220kV Suoi Sap 2A hydropower substation and the 220kV Huoi Quang – Nghia Lo transmission line. The 220kV transmission line connecting the Son La 500kV station to Dien Bien has also received initial approval and is in the land clearance phase.

Speaking at the meeting, Khanh emphasised that renewable energy development is a key strategic direction, contributing to national energy security, promoting green growth, and ensuring sustainable development for the province.

He called on the provincial People’s Committee and related departments to closely coordinate efforts and swiftly complete procedures on planning, land use, and grid connection infrastructure. He also urged investors to gather resources, strictly adhere to timelines and legal regulations to ensure the feasibility and effectiveness of each project.