Severe heatwaves across northern and central Vietnam have pushed national electricity consumption to unprecedented levels, with demand expected to continue rising as temperatures in Hanoi approach historic records.

According to the National Power System and Market Operation Company (NSMO), both national and northern regional power systems recorded new peaks in electricity load and output on May 25, while demand remained extremely high on May 26.

NSMO reported that national peak power demand reached 57,120 MW at 1:40 p.m. on May 25, marking a 13.5% increase compared to the same period last year. Daily electricity consumption also climbed to a record 1.171 billion kWh, exceeding the previous high by 5.3%.

Northern Vietnam accounted for more than half of total national electricity usage. Peak capacity in the region rose to 29,667 MW, approximately 1,700 MW higher than the previous day and 5.3% above the earlier 2025 record. Electricity consumption in the North reached 603 million kWh.

Preliminary figures for May 26 indicated that electricity demand continued to surge, with national load reaching 57,590 MW by midday, while the northern region recorded 29,385 MW.

The northern and central Vietnam is experiencing an intense heat wave. (Photo: VNA)

Weather experts forecast temperatures in Hanoi could range between 40.3 and 42 degrees Celsius during May 26-27, potentially surpassing the city’s previous May record of 40.3 degrees set in 2015.

NSMO projected that evening peak demand on May 26 could increase to 56,700 MW nationwide and 30,200 MW in northern Vietnam, potentially setting another record for 2026. Demand in the North on May 27 could further rise to between 31,000 MW and 31,500 MW as the heatwave persists.

To ensure stable electricity supply, NSMO said it is maximizing the operation of high-cost power sources, including LNG-fired and oil-fired power plants.

The company also called on households and businesses to reduce electricity consumption by turning off unnecessary electrical devices, setting air conditioners at 26 degrees Celsius or higher, and limiting decorative outdoor lighting during nighttime hours. Consumers were encouraged to shift energy-intensive activities to off-peak periods to ease pressure on the power grid.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health’s Administration of Disease Prevention has instructed local health authorities to strengthen measures protecting public health against the impacts of extreme heat, drought, and saltwater intrusion.

Health officials warned that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to serious conditions such as heatstroke, sunstroke, and heat shock, particularly for people working outdoors or in hot environments.

Source: EVNVN