Vietnam PM urges energy saving, shift to electric transport amid global volatility

The directive cites rising geopolitical tensions in key energy-producing and transit regions, which have disrupted supplies of oil, gas, and coal and increased risks to energy security, particularly for import-dependent countries.

It calls on ministries and local authorities to integrate energy-saving targets into development plans and promote the use of biofuels and alternative energy sources.

The government will accelerate the roll-out of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and introduce policies to support the production and use of electric transport, including a gradual shift of public and official vehicles to electricity.

Authorities were also instructed to improve energy efficiency in production, adopt higher-efficiency technologies, and increase the recovery and reuse of waste heat, particularly in energy-intensive industries.

The directive encourages research and pilot use of low-emission fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia, along with battery storage systems and renewable energy including rooftop solar and wind power.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade was tasked with monitoring global energy markets and ensuring sufficient domestic supply of fuel, electricity, and gas.

Vietnam aims to phase out 20–60 watt incandescent light bulbs by the third quarter of 2026 and begin accelerating the transition to biofuels from April 2026.

State firms including Vietnam Electricity (EVN) and Vietnam National Industry - Energy Group (Petrovietnam) were instructed to step up energy-saving measures and improve efficiency.

Vietnam has made several upward fuel price adjustments in recent weeks, tracking global refined fuel price movements under its market-based pricing mechanism with state management.

Global oil prices have been volatile due to escalating conflict in the Middle East since February 28 and concerns over supply disruptions through key shipping routes, with crude rising above US$100 per barrel, according to industry data.