Project Description
The Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the Hydropower Master Plan in the Context of Power Development Plan VI (PDP VI) aimed to pilot an international-standard SEA for Vietnam’s energy sector, focusing on hydropower. Commissioned to build national capacity and inform sustainable energy planning, the SEA analyzed Vietnam’s hydropower strategy within the broader context of PDP VI, emphasizing integration of environmental and socio-economic factors. The project engaged multiple stakeholders to ensure key sustainability concerns and alternatives were incorporated into energy policy deliberations and decision-making.
Objectives, Activities and Results
The SEA aimed to assess sustainability issues linked to Vietnam’s hydropower strategy, explore its integration with other energy sub-sectors, and propose actionable alternatives. Activities included in-depth analysis of national hydropower trends, a detailed case study of a river basin, and identification of cross-sector linkages with water, fisheries, forestry, and transport. Key outputs were strategic recommendations for the next PDP cycle, including improved integration of energy security, climate change, and environmental safeguards. The SEA also proposed potential follow-on investments and contributed to developing national expertise in applying SEA methodology to the energy sector.
