Comprehensive evaluation of electricity generation and emission reduction potential in the power sector using renewable alternatives in Vietnam

Abstract

The electricity generation in developing countries is primarily fossil fuel-oriented, leading to substantial air and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It is projected that Vietnam's GHG emissions will be increased significantly by 2030 due to heavy reliance on fossil fuel-fired power plants in rapid economic development. This study projected and evaluated the benefits of adopting green and renewable sources (i.e., municipal solid wastes (MSW) and solar power) in terms of its electricity generation and emission reduction (in CO2e) in 2030. The Life cycle assessment (LCA) was adopted to investigate the potential emission reduction per unit of electricity generation (kg CO2e/ kWh) from the waste-to-electricity process under different operational conditions (i.e., collection, operation, and disposal). The results show that for future solar power generation, 9557 GWh of electricity with 8219 Gg CO2e of GHG emission saving was projected in 2030 under the average estimation scenario, while for waste-to-electricity, 12,991 GWh of electricity with 4910.5 Gg CO2e saving was projected. Overall, the results illustrate appreciable GHG emission savings from adopting green and renewable energy practices. It sets out a good example for developing countries who are seeking ways of curbing their growing GHG emissions to combat global climate change. It should be aware that although a considerable emission reduction in the thermal power sector is anticipated through adopting renewable and green alternatives, it is still important for the Vietnam government to limit or stop the growth of fossil fuel-fired power plants (especially for coal-fired) for the future environmental sustainability.