“Nhon Trach 3 and 4 power plants, with a total capacity of 1,500 MW, are expected to supply 9 billion kWh annually.”
Vietnam’s First $1.4 Billion Gas Power Plant
A breakthrough in the energy industry
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Nhon Trach 3 and 4 Power Plants are Vietnam’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) thermal power projects, marking a significant milestone in the country’s energy sector. The project is invested by PetroVietnam Power Corporation (PV Power) with a total capital of $1.4 billion (over VND 35,000 billion).
Located in Ong Keo Industrial Park, Nhon Trach District, Dong Nai Province, the complex includes two power plants with a total capacity of 1,500–1,600 MW. Once commercially operational in July and October 2025, the project will supply approximately 9 billion kWh of electricity annually to the national grid, playing a crucial role in energy security.
Additionally, Nhon Trach 3 and 4 Power Plants contribute to Vietnam’s commitment to reducing emissions and achieving Net Zero by 2050, as pledged at COP26 in 2021.
Figure 1: Nhon Trach 3 and 4 Power Plants – Dong Nai
CUTTING-EDGE GAS TURBINE TECHNOLOGY
A key highlight of Nhon Trach 3 and 4 Power Plants is the adoption of combined-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) technology, a state-of-the-art solution that enhances efficiency while minimizing emissions.
CCGT technology operates by using gas turbines to burn fuel, generating electricity and waste heat. Instead of letting the heat escape, the system recaptures it to produce steam, which then powers steam turbines. This maximizes energy utilization, reduces fuel consumption, and lowers CO₂ emissions.
The plants are equipped with GE Vernova’s 9HA.02 gas turbines, each with a capacity of 571 MW, among the most efficient in the world. The turbines feature DLN 2.6e combustion systems, which reduce NOx emissions and can burn up to 50% hydrogen mixed with natural gas. This enhances efficiency while supporting Vietnam’s decarbonization goals.
Figure 2: Gas turbine illustration. Source: Internet
LNG – A CLEAN FUEL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
The use of LNG in Nhon Trach 3 and 4 Power Plants represents a major step in Vietnam’s clean energy strategy. While still a fossil fuel, LNG is far more environmentally friendly than coal and diesel.
Key advantages of LNG:
- Lower CO₂ emissions: LNG power generation produces 50% less CO₂ than coal.
- Cleaner combustion: It burns without residue, reducing equipment wear and extending the system’s lifespan.
- Compatible with renewables: LNG serves as a stable backup when wind and solar power fluctuate.
Investing in LNG infrastructure also lays the foundation for future green hydrogen adoption, bringing Vietnam closer to its Net Zero goal by 2050.
Figure 3: Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)
DRIVING THE GROWTH OF GAS POWER IN VIETNAM
The success of Nhon Trach3 and 4 Power Plants will pave the way for future LNG power projects in Vietnam. According to Power Development Plan VIII, the country aims to develop 20 LNG power plants with a total capacity of 20 GW by 2030.
Gas power not only strengthens energy security but also supports sustainable economic growth. With high efficiency, low emissions, and operational flexibility, LNG power plants will play a crucial role in Vietnam’s national power system.
CONCLUSION
The Nhon Trach 3 and 4 Power Plant marks a major milestone in Vietnam’s energy sector. With advanced gas turbine technology and environmentally friendly LNG fuel, this project ensures a stable power supply while promoting a sustainable energy transition. It is a vital step toward a greener economy and reduced carbon emissions in Vietnam’s future.
(Vn-Industry.)
Home page: https://vn-industry.com/
