Construction of the 500kV Lao Cai-Vinh Yen Transmission Line Through Phu Tho Province

On March 5, in Phu Tho, Vietnam Electricity (EVN) and Power Project Management Board 1 held a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the 500kV Lao Cai-Vinh Yen transmission line segment passing through Phu Tho province.

The 500kV Lao Cai-Vinh Yen transmission line is a vital infrastructure project, facilitating the transmission of electricity from hydropower plants in the Northwest and neighboring provinces to the national grid. It enhances the stability and safety of the power system while preparing for potential electricity imports from China.

The project was approved by the Prime Minister under Decision No. 1274/QD-TTg, dated October 26, 2024. This double-circuit 500 kV transmission line spans 229.5 km and includes 468 pole foundation locations. It traverses four provinces-Lao Cai, Yen Bai, Phu Tho, and Vinh Phuc-starting at the 500kV Lao Cai substation and terminating at the 500kV Vinh Yen substation.

EVN serves as the project investor, with Power Project Management Board 1 overseeing its implementation. Construction commenced in March 2025 and is scheduled for completion before September 2, 2025. The project has a total investment of over VND 7,410 billion, funded through an 80% loan from the Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (Vietcombank) and 20% counterpart capital from EVN (pre-tax).

Once operational, the transmission line will be capable of transferring 2,000-3,000 MW from Northwest hydropower plants and adjacent provinces to the national grid. It will strengthen interregional power connections, improve the efficiency of electricity transmission, reduce energy losses, and enhance EVN’s overall operational effectiveness.

The transmission line segment in Phu Tho province spans 41.06 km, with 94 pole foundation locations (from VT275 to VT369), crossing the districts of Doan Hung, Thanh Ba, and Phu Ninh.

During the ceremony, EVN leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with local authorities, contractors, and consultants to ensure timely project completion. The implementation has received strong support from the Phu Tho Provincial Party Committee, the Provincial People’s Committee, relevant departments, district authorities, and local communities. This collaboration has been instrumental in expediting compensation, support, and resettlement processes.

Vietnam Electricity Group has called upon the Provincial Party Committee, the People’s Committee, and relevant agencies in Phu Tho to continue facilitating land clearance, compensation, and resettlement efforts. Timely handover of land for pole foundation construction and transmission corridors will enable synchronized implementation, ensuring that the project stays on track to meet the national energy demands.

Ha An