Within the framework of the survey to amend the Law on Energy-saving and Efficient Use, the working delegation of the National Assembly's Committee on Science, Technology and Environment recently had a meeting in a number of localities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Long An and Dong Nai. Here, many businesses have made practical recommendations, and also shown remarkable efforts in implementing energy-saving solutions.
In Dong Nai, according to a representative of the Department of Industry and Trade, in recent times, the province has actively implemented propaganda activities and guided businesses to save electricity according to the direction of the Government and the Ministry of Industry and Trade. Specifically, businesses must develop an electricity saving plan, appoint energy managers, conduct energy audits and issue electricity use standards for each workshop.
In 2024, the total energy-saving electricity output in the area will reach 176,842kWh - equivalent to more than 2.1% of total consumption output, which is a figure that demonstrates the initial efficiency from the participation of businesses. Notably, in an hour of responding to the Earth Hour 2025 campaign, a company in Dong Nai has reduced up to 650kWh - a result of proactively monitoring and adjusting electricity use activities appropriately.
Not only stopping at administrative measures, some businesses have taken more methodical and long-term steps. ICD Tan Cang Long Binh Joint Stock Company shared that the enterprise has launched internal power saving movements, replacing lighting systems with LED lights, installing light sensors and optimizing cooling systems in refrigeration and cooling warehouses. These small, yet synchronous solutions help significantly save operating costs, while extending the life of equipment and minimizing emissions to the environment.
Another bright spot is Saitex International Dong Nai Company Limited - a unit highly appreciated for its energy-saving practice. Since the construction of the factory, the company has chosen materials that meet LED green building standards, using reflective roofs and natural ventilation systems. Currently, the company is operating about 15,000 solar panels, both serving production and contributing to reducing emissions by about 2,000 tons of CO2 per year.
However, it is undeniable that there are barriers to expanding energy-saving models, especially energy services ( UNESCO). Southern Power Corporation (EVNSPC) said that it has cooperated to test the ESCO model with 6 NLMT hot water plants, bringing efficiency beyond expectations. However, up to now, this model still does not have a clear legal mechanism, making it difficult to hand over assets to customers. EVNSPC recommends that it is necessary to soon supplement regulations on the operating mechanism, investment scope and form of asset ownership of ESCO enterprises.
Notably, in the industrial sector - where huge amounts of energy are consumed - financial problems continue to be a major barrier.
Thanh Chau Investment Joint Stock Company ( PPJ Group) said that although it has reduced 19% of electricity per product unit and plans to switch to clean energy, the initial investment cost is very large. access to preferential loans is still limited, and the price of energy-saving equipment is still high, which are challenges that businesses face.
In the context of the Law on Energy Efficiency and Savings being amended, the business community hopes to have more specific incentive mechanisms such as tax incentives, green credit and technical support from the State. The implementation of energy saving by businesses is not only a cost reduction, but also a practical action for the environment and national benefits.
Energy saving must become a social responsibility, not just a legal obligation. Enterprises need to become a pioneer in this process - for a green economy and sustainable development.
