On December 2nd, Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son signed Decision No. 2634/QĐ-TTg, approving the list of critical national projects in the energy sector. Among these, the Ninh Thuan 1 and 2 nuclear power plants in Khanh Hoa (each with a capacity of 2,000-3,200 MW) stand out, with operations expected to commence between 2030 and 2035.
The Ninh Thuan nuclear power project was first approved by the National Assembly in 2009, with a total capacity of 4,000 MW divided into two plants spanning 1,642 hectares. However, in 2016, the project was temporarily halted by the National Assembly due to various external factors.
After nearly a decade of suspension, on November 30, 2024, the National Assembly passed a resolution to resume the investment in the Ninh Thuan nuclear power project. Thus, the project has been relaunched after an 8-year hiatus.
Recently, from December 1st to 11th, in Hanoi, the Ministry of Science and Technology, led by the Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority, collaborated with relevant ministries and agencies to work with a delegation from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The goal was to conduct a comprehensive review of Vietnam’s national nuclear infrastructure (Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review Mission – INIR Mission).
Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Le Xuan Dinh speaks at the Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review Mission in Vietnam – Photo: VGP/TG
This review is a crucial step in preparing for the implementation of the Ninh Thuan nuclear power project and similar future initiatives.
According to IAEA guidelines, nuclear infrastructure encompasses 19 key areas, covering all preparatory activities, from physical infrastructure, equipment, and auxiliary facilities to legal frameworks, economic resources, and human capital, essential for nuclear power development.
For countries like Vietnam, embarking on their first nuclear power program, infrastructure development is divided into three phases, marked by three milestones.
Phase 1 – Preparing to decide on launching the nuclear power program, marked by Milestone 1: Ready to make the decision to proceed with the first nuclear power project.
Phase 2 – Preparing for the construction of the nuclear power plant, marked by Milestone 2: Ready to invite bids for the first project.
Phase 3 – Constructing and commissioning the first nuclear power plant, marked by Milestone 3: Ready to commission the first nuclear power plant.
The current INIR mission focuses on objectively and comprehensively evaluating all 19 aspects of nuclear infrastructure against Milestone 2, as outlined by the IAEA.
In preparation for the mission, Vietnam’s Nuclear Infrastructure Assessment Working Group, established by the Ministry of Science and Technology, completed a self-assessment report in October 2025 and submitted it to the IAEA.
Following the review, the INIR delegation will submit a comprehensive report to the Vietnamese government, highlighting achievements, areas for improvement, and providing critical recommendations. These will support Vietnam in developing a comprehensive plan for nuclear infrastructure, ensuring the Ninh Thuan nuclear power project progresses efficiently, safely, and securely, in line with IAEA and international standards.
Prime Minister: Nuclear Power Plant Construction Negotiations Emphasize ‘Mutual Benefits, Shared Risks’
On the afternoon of October 22nd, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Head of the Steering Committee for Nuclear Power Plant Construction, chaired the third meeting of the Steering Committee.
Vietnam’s First Two Nuclear Power Projects Face Challenges as Khanh Hoa Province Proposes Special Policies
The Standing Committee on Science, Technology, and Environment oversees the implementation of special investment mechanisms and policies for the development of nuclear power projects.
The Nuclear Option: Vietnam’s First Foray into Nuclear Energy
This project is of paramount importance to Vietnam’s energy security and development.
Nuclear Reboot: Vietnam Steps into a New Age
In today’s context, restarting the Ninh Thuan nuclear power project is not just a solution to the country’s energy security but also a step towards a green and sustainable economy, propelling Vietnam’s science and technology to new heights. To ensure the project’s success, comprehensive preparations are essential, encompassing technological safety, high-quality human resources development, and societal consensus.
Nuclear Power Reboot Approved by Congress, Vietnam Airlines Receives Capital Injection
The National Assembly agrees to continue with the policy of investing in the Ninh Thuan nuclear power project and assigns the Government to urgently direct the allocation of resources for its implementation, in accordance with the conclusions of the competent authorities. This includes researching and proposing amendments to relevant laws, such as the Law on Atomic Energy.
Regarding Vietnam Airlines, the National Assembly approves the plan to offer additional shares to existing shareholders, thus increasing its charter capital by a maximum of VND 22,000 billion.
