Vietnam reviews 2026 waste-to-energy electricity pricing framework

The Electricity Regulatory Authority of Vietnam, under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, is currently seeking feedback on the proposed 2026 electricity generation price framework for waste-to-energy plants. According to calculations by Vietnam Electricity (EVN), the proposed ceiling price is 2,378.39 VND/kWh, which represents a 7.64% decrease compared to 2025.

Investors and industry experts have raised concerns that the proposed framework does not accurately reflect current market realities. A primary point of contention is the reference investment rate, which EVN based on a two-year-old feasibility study from the Tra Vinh Solid Waste Treatment Plant, estimated at approximately 120.16 million VND/kW.

Stakeholders argue that recent fluctuations in the costs of equipment, raw materials, technical labor, logistics, and exchange rates have significantly increased project costs. Recent EPC bidding data suggests actual investment rates may range between 140 million and 148 million VND/kW. Experts emphasize that waste-to-energy projects serve a dual purpose of waste management and power production, requiring specialized technology for emission control and heat exchange that necessitates higher capital expenditure.