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1. GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 Country overview

1.1.1 Governmental System

The Government is an executive agency of National Assembly and is the highest administrative agency of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. Government is subjected to the mechanism of supervising of and reporting to the National Assembly, the Standing Committee of the National Assembly, and President. Government term is 5 years. The head of the Government is Prime Minister; under the Prime Minister are Deputy Prime Ministers, the Ministers and Heads of ministerial-level agencies.

The Government of Viet Nam has 18 ministries and 4 ministerial-level agencies. In addition, there are 8 agencies directly under the management of the Government Office.

Administrative system of Viet Nam includes three levels:

1.1.2 Geography and Climate

Viet Nam is located in the Indochina peninsula, the Southeast Asia region. Viet Nam's territory runs along the east coast of the peninsula. Viet Nam has a land border with China (1281 km), Laos (2130 km) and Cambodia (1228 km) and 3444 km long coastline contiguous to Gulf of Tonkin, East Sea and Gulf of Thailand.

Viet Nam has an area of 331,051 km², including approximately 327,480 km² land and more than 4,200 km² marine aquatic internal, with more than 2,800 islands, reefs beaches large and small, near and offshore, including Hoang Sa and Truong Sa islands; a local marine areas, territorial waters, exclusive economic and continental shelf with an area of over 1 million km². Terrain is covered with hills (40%) and mountains full of forests (40%), while the flat land accounts for less than about 20%. The North consists of plateaus and the Red River Delta, which covers an area of about 14,862 km2; The Central is a coastal lowland, the plateaus and the Truong Son Mountain Range; and the South has the Mekong River Delta, which covers an area of about 40,604 km2. The highest point of Viet Nam is 3143 meters at the top of Phan Si Pan, the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Area of arable land accounts for 17% of the total land area of Viet Nam. Viet Nam has many mineral mines on land, natural forests and offshore oil, gas.

Viet Nam climate is tropical monsoon in the South with two seasons (the rainy season, from mid May to mid September and the dry season, from mid October to mid April) and the monsoon climate in the North with four distinct seasons (Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter). Lying along the coast, Viet Nam climate is conditioned in part by sea currents and takes many factors of maritime climate. Relative average humidity is 84% throughout the year. Viet Nam has a.nnual rainfall from 1200 to 3000 mm, about 1,500 hours to 3,000 hours of sunshine per year and temperatures from 5° C to 37° C. Viet Nam has always to prevent storms and flooding with 5 to 10 storms per year.

1.1.3 Population

As of 31 December 2010, the population of the country is estimated 86.93 millions, of which 70.5% lived in rural areas and 29.5% in urban areas. Major urban centres are Ha Noi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City, which population and population density are as follows:

The country's average population density is 260 inhabitants/km2. It varies from one area to another. While the population density is approximately 932 in the northern Red River Delta and 425 in the southern Mekong Delta, the population density is 116 in the Northern midland and mountain areas and only 94 in the Central Highlands.

TABLE 1. POPULATION INFORMATION

Average annual growth rate (%)
Year 19701980 1990 20002005 2009 2000 to 2009
Population (millions) 41.753.766.0 77.6383.1186.02 1.62
Population density (inhabitants/km²) 125161200 234251260 1.61
Urban Population as % of total 24.1227.10 29.50 0.31
Area (1000 km²) 331,051

Source: Viet Nam General Statistical Office (http://www.gso.gov.vn)

1.1.4 Economic Data

The period 2001-2005 witnessed significant innovations in Viet Nam’s economic growth, economy structure transition, hunger elimination and poverty reduction, foreign investment attraction... which created important driving forces contributing to the success of the socio-economic development cause of the Country.

The average GDP growth rate in the period 2000-2009 reached 7.32%. The GDP per capita increased from US$ 402 in 2000 (at constant 2000 US$) to US$ 1,064 at current 2009 US$ (equivalent to US$ 831 at constant 2000 US$).

During the past eight years (2000-2009) there were changes in density of economic sectors. Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing density decreased from 24.53% in 2000 to 20.91% in 2009, industry and construction increased from 36.73% in 2000 to 40.24% in 2009, while services has been maintained at 38.85% in 2009 compared to 38.74% in 2000.

TABLE 2. GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP)

Average annual growth rate (%)
20002005 2009 2000 to 2009
GDP (millions of current US$) 31.552,991.2 21.06
GDP (millions of constant 2000 US$) 31.547.271.0 13.93
GDP per capita (PPP* US$/capita) 1,9662,5712,900 5.28
GDP per capita (current US$/capita) 402.0642.01,064 18.29
Average exchange rates (VND/US$) 14,15115,86418,118 3.11

* PPP: Purchasing Power Parity

Source: General Statistics Office of Viet Nam

National economic development for the period 2006-2030 are projected in three (3) scenarios high, base, and low with the GDP average annual growth rates are 8.2%, 7.2%, and 6.9%, respectively.

1.2 Energy Information

1.2.1 Estimated available energy

TABLE 3. ESTIMATED AVAILABLE ENERGY SOURCES

Estimated available energy sources
Fossil FuelsNuclear Renewables
Solid (surveyed data as of 1st Jan. 2005) Liquid and Gas (Bill. TOE)Uranium (U3O8 content > 0.015)HydroOther
Renewable and small hydro
Total amount in specific units*5,883 Estimated: 3.8 - 4.2
Ascertained 1.05 - 1.14		 254,000- Technical Potential: 31000
- Economic & Technical Potential: 18 - 20		5,300
Total amount in Exajoule (EJ) 246,309.44 Estimated: 159.1 – 175.85
Ascertained: 43.96 – 47.73		 21,031.2- Technical Potential: 0.11
- Economic & technical Potential: 0.06 – 0.07
0.2

* Solid, Liquid & Gas: Billion TOE; Uranium: Metric tons; Hydro, Renewable: GW

Source: Pre-FS Report on the Ninh Thuan NPP Project, IE, August 2009

1.2.2 Energy Statistics

TABLE 4. ENERGY STATISTICS

Unit: KTOE

Average annual growth rate (%)
19701980 1990 20002005 2009* 2000 to 2009
Energy consumption**       
- Total 195463223544248 583706.81
- Solids*** 221243728342 1264512.5
- Liquids(*) 2860791712336 166078.58
- Gases 7.714414908 729019.7
- Nuclear
- Hydro 206343143835 67855.16
- Other
Renewables		 124211419114794 147220.41
Energy production        
- Total     2699062976 7024711.21
- Solids***  131371909224480 7.16
- Liquids  90761905116970 7.2
- Gases   1194 6204729022.26
- Nuclear
- Hydro 358338356785 7.35
- Other
Renewables		     14794 14722
Net import (Import - Export)      1715013787
- Total      80126 840341

* Latest available data

** Energy consumption = Primary energy consumption + Net import (Import - Export) of secondary energy.

*** Solid fuels include coal, lignite

(*): liquids: 2009, include Crude oil

1 KTOE = 41.868 TJ (1 TJ = 1012 J, 1 EJ = 106 TJ = 1018J)

Source: Vietnam Energy Statistics 2009

1.2.3 Energy policy

The National Strategy on Energy Development to 2020 outlook to 2050 has made the following policies:

a) Policy to ensure national energy security

Give priorities to the implementation of policy to ensure national energy security oriented synchronous development of energy resources; exploitation and economical use of energy resources in the country; reducing dependence on imported petroleum products; reasonable import and export of coal (in the immediate reduction of export coal each year); linkage of energy systems in the region; expanding oil stockpile; combination of energy security and national defense and national security.

b) Policy on energy prices

Energy price policy is considered as one of the breakthrough policies; quickly eliminate monopolies, subsidies in both production and consumption of energy. Energy prices should be determined in accordance with market mechanisms; State regulates energy prices through tax policy and other management tools.

c) Investment policies for the development of new and renewable energy sources, bio-fuels, nuclear power

Prioritize the development of new energy, renewable energy, bio-fuels, nuclear power. Encourage investment into foreign countries to seek out energy sources; make policies to ensure equality between the economic sectors involved in energy development.

d) Policy on energy saving and efficient uses

Policies to encourage energy saving and efficient uses should determine the specific requirements of savings for energy-intensive industries; encourage the use of energy-saving new equipment and technologies.

e) Environmental Protection Policy

Environmental protection policy aims to ensure the implementation of the mining and energy uses with better environmental management; application of advanced reasonable environmental standards.

And some another policies on Organizational restructure of energy sector and Establishment of competitive energy market; Energy Science and technology development; International cooperation; Energy export and import.

1.3 Electricity system

1.3.1 Electricity policy and decision making process

Electricity Policy

Some Implementation Measures:

Electricity Price

Mobilization of investment sources

Establish and develop electricity market

Decision making process

Decisions for electricity development include strategy, program, master plan, and project. Strategy and program reflect a long-term strategic viewpoint of the Government; master plan makes a development planning for a period from 10-15 year (updated every 5 years); project is for concrete construction of electric power plant(s), transmission line system...

Before making decision, the Government assigns on ministry (called assigning ministry) to prepare draft document and send to relevant ministries, agencies for review, comment and suggestion. Based on gathering opinions, the assigning ministry either to revise the document or explanation the reason why it maintains its opinion(s).

After that, the assigning ministry will submit the document to the Prime Minister for decision. Depending on the document type, the decision will be made by National Assembly, Government, Prime Minister or Minister.

1.3.2 Structure of electric power sector

The status of electricity system in Vietnam

From 1990 to 2009, commercial electricity increased more than 12 times with the average growth rate of 14% per year. In 2007 and 2008 due to the impact of the world economic crisis, the growth rates decreased to 13.7% and 12.9%, respectively. National electricity transmission grid has covered all provinces throughout the country: by June of 2009, 100% of the districts, 97.74% of the communes and 94.43% of households in Viet Nam have accessed electricity.

The status of electricity generation sources: By the end of 2009, the total installed capacity is 18,481 MW available capacity is 16,813 MW. Average electricity production growth rate in the period 1996-2000 is 13.5% per year, in 2001-2005 is 14.7% per year; but in 2006-2008 dropped to 12.3% per year. The total electricity production amount in 2009 reached 87.3 billion kWh.

The status on electricity transmission grid: By the end of 2009, 500 kV transmission lines system is 3,438 km, the total capacity of 500 kV transformer stations is 7,500 MVA, the total length of 220 kV transmission lines is 8,497 km, the total capacity of 220 kV transformer station is 19,094 MVA.

Main organizations

* Government

* Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT)

* Electricity Regulatory Authority of Viet Nam

* Vietnam Electricity (EVN)

Viet Nam Electricity (EVN) is the unique state-owned electricity group in Viet Nam operating under the management of the MOIT. Under EVN, there are electric power Companies, transmission companies, and A/Es.

* Non-EVN Electricity Generation Companies

At present, there are BOT, IPP, joint-stock electricity power generation and distribution companies. By the end of 2009, total installed capacity of non-EVN electricity generation companies account for 44,1% (8,163 MW) of total electricity installed capacity of Viet Nam.

1.3.3 Main indicators

TABLE 5. ELECTRICITY PRODUCTION, CONSUMPTION AND CAPACITY

Average annual growth rate (%)
19701980 1990 20002005 2009 2000 to 2009
Capacity of electrical plants (MW)          
- Thermal 4008901400 168721144066 10.3
- Hydro 160250680 329242016468 7.8
- Nuclear
- Wind
- Geothermal
- other renewable40 5012566315 794722.8
- Total5601180 2120623511576 1848112.8
Electricity production (GWh)     
- Thermal15102900 3350590711829 1590212.7
- Hydro6201200 53701455016945 299818.4
- Nuclear      
- Wind      
- Geothermal 
- other renewable 110 0610325226 4139523.7
- Total (1)2130  4100872026561 540408727814.1
Total Electricity consumption (GWh) 2120 4210872022397 456037433614.3

(1) Electricity transmission losses are not deducted.

Source: IE

TABLE 6. ENERGY RELATED RATIOS

19701980 1990 20002005 2009
CommercialEnergy consumption per capita (GJ/capita) 4.42.662.76 6.5311.115.6
Electricity consumption per capita (kWh/capita) 49.678.4131.8 289567894
Electricity consumption/ Final Energy consumption (%) 3.366.8112.6 16.318.220.6
Nuclear/Total electricity (%)
Ratio of external dependency (%) (1) 24

(1) Net import / Total energy consumption.

Source: IE

Forecasting electricity demand period 2010 - 2025 with vision to 2030

The three electricity development scenarios for the period from 2011 - 2030 are as follows:

2. NUCLEAR POWER SITUATION

2.1 Historical development and current organizational structure

2.1.1 Overview

Since 1996, studies on sustainable energy development, including taking into consideration of the role of nuclear power in the national energy system, have been being carried out in Viet Nam. Many ministries, organization, universities, and research institutes have been involved in the studies.

During the period 1996-2009, the Government of Viet Nam has approved and provided financial budgets to the following programme and projects:

On November 25th, 2009 Viet Nam's National Assembly approved the government plans to build the first two nuclear power plants in Viet Nam.

On December 2009, Viet Nam decided to invite Russia as a partner for the Project on the construction of Ninh Thuan 1 NPP.

On October 2010, Viet Nam decided to choose Japan as a partner for the Project on the construction of Ninh Thuan 2 NPP.

2.1.2 Current organizational chart(s)

The Prime Minister and one Deputy Prime Minister lead the preparation for nuclear power program. All NPP - related issues are reported directly to the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister or to the Ministers in charged.

Under the direction of the Government, many ministries, organizations, and universities have been involved in the nuclear power development in Viet Nam, namely:

2.2 Nuclear power plants: Overview

2.2.1 Status and performance of nuclear power plants

Not Available

2.2.2 Plant upgrading, plant life management and license renewals

Not available

2.3 Future development of Nuclear Power

2.3.1 Nuclear power development strategy

Main Decisions

Over the past years the Government of Viet Nam has pursued the consistent policies on safe, secure and peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

On the 3rd January 2006, the Prime Minister signed a decision on launching the “Strategy for Peaceful Utilization of Atomic Energy up to the year 2020”, which determines the objectives and road-map for atomic energy development in Viet Nam on both non-power and power applications.

In 2007 the Government also approved the "Master Plan for Electricity Development up to 2020 and Vision to 2050", which stated that the first nuclear power plant would be put into commercial operation by 2020.

The Atomic Energy Law was approved by the Viet Nam National Assembly on the 3rd June 2008 and came into force on the 1st January 2009.

On the 25th November 2009 Vietnam's National Assembly approved government plans to build the first two nuclear power plants.

On the 24th June 2010, the Prime Minister of Viet Nam approved the "Master Plan for the Implementation of the Strategy for Peaceful Utilization of Atomic Energy up to 2020”.

On the 17th July 2010, the Prime Minister enacted a decision on approval of the Orientation of Planning for Nuclear Power Development in Viet Nam up to 2030.

Project framework (time scales, number of units, etc)

The first two nuclear power plants called Ninh Thuan 1 and Ninh Thuan 2 locate at Phuoc Dinh and Vinh Hai of Ninh Thuan Province in the Southern Central of Viet Nam. The total capacity of the two NPPs is 4,000 MW (2 units x 1,000 MW at each site).

According to the base scenario, the first nuclear power unit of capacity 1000 MW will be put into commercial operation by the year 2020. By 2025, the nuclear power capacity will reach 4000 MW (accounting for 4.4% of the total electric power generation capacity) and continue to increase to 10.000 MW (8%) by 2030.

According to the high scenario, the first nuclear power unit of capacity 1000 MW will be put into commercial operation by the year 2020. By 2025, the nuclear power capacity will reach 8.000 MW (accounting for 7% of the total electric power generation capacity) and continue to increase to 15.000 MW (10%) by 2030.

TABLE 8. PLANNED NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS

Station/Project Name Type Capacity (MW)Expected Construction Start Year Expected Commercial Year
 Unit 1, Phuoc Dinh / Ninh Thuan 1  1000 20142020
 Unit 2, Phuoc Dinh / Ninh Thuan 1  100020152021
 Unit 1, Vinh Hai / Ninh Thuan 2   100020152021
 Unit 2, Vinh Hai / Ninh Thuan 2  100020162022

* Note: Data in the above Table is based on the Pre-FS Report and they are still preliminary data. The final decision on the NPP building plan should be approved by the Viet Nam's National Assembly when the Government submit the FS Report (2012).

2.3.2 Project management

On the 5th March 2002, the Prime Minister decided to establish the Governmental Steering Committee for Pre-FS on the construction of the first nuclear power plant in Viet Nam. The Committee consists of the Minister of Industry, Vice-Ministers and senior officials from relevant ministries, agencies, and institutions. The Committee had several functions similar to a NEPIO.

As assigned by the Prime Minister, Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) is responsible for conducting Pre-FS on the first NNPs. Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) is responsible for formulating the Viet Nam Strategy for Peaceful Utilization of Atomic Energy up to 2020, and conducting studies and Elucidation of the Aspects of Nuclear Power Development in Viet Nam.

In August 2008, MOST established an inter-agencies working group to coordinate the preparation of the Mater Plan’s projects in order for implementing the Atomic Energy Strategy. A MOST Vice-Minister heads the Working Group.

Under the control of the MOIT, Vietnam Electricity (EVN) is responsible for conduct Pre-FS and FS and will be owner/operator of the first NPPs (Ninh Thuan 1 and Ninh Thuan 2).

On 4 May 2010, the Prime Minister enacted a decision on the establishment of the State Steering Committee for Ninh Thuan Nuclear Power Project led by a Deputy Prime Minister with Minister of Industry and Trade as its Permanent Vice-Head.

On 17 January 2011 the Prime Minister enacted a decision on the issuance of Regulation on the Operation of the State Steering Committee for Ninh Thuan Nuclear Power Project.

The Steering Committee has the functions and duties as follows:

2.3.3 Project funding

EVN will be the investor for the first four NP units. A proposal for financial arrangement for these units is as follows:

2.3.4 Electric grid development

Along with decision on NPP construction, the Government decided to upgrade and expansion 500 KV and higher electric grid at the Southern Central, where the first NPPs will be constructed and put into operation in the period 2020-2025.

2.3.5 Site Selection

Based on the guidance of Agency International Atomic Energy (IAEA) on the site selection for the NPPs, EVN has conducted surveys and studies at 7 main areas across the country and selected 5 areas with 21 sites for further consideration. Using expert method to score 19 weighted criteria in combination with the general criteria for environmental assessment, EVN has selected 8 potential sites; each site can build 4 nuclear power units. Among them, the following two sites for the first NPPs have been selected:

2.4 Organizations involved in construction of NPPs

Not currently available

2.5 Organizations involved in operation of NPPs

2.6 Organizations involved in decommissioning of NPPs

Not available

2.7 Fuel cycle including waste management

Radioactive wastes, including spent fuels, will be stored temporarily about 30 years at nuclear power plants. At present, Ministry of Construction in collaboration with relevant organizations is conducting studies for national radioactive waste repository planning.

Strategies for fuel cycle and waste management will be developed.

2.8 Research and development

2.8.1 R&D organizations

Viet Nam Atomic Energy Institute (VAEI)

VAEI (its old name is VAEC) operates under the MOST control and management. The VAEI comprises the following institutions:

  1. Da Lat Nuclear Research Institute (DNRI);

  2. Center for Application of Nuclear Technique in Industry (CANTI) in Da Lat

  3. Institute for Nuclear Science and Technology (INST) in Ha noi;

  4. Institute for Technology of Radioactive and Rare Elements (ITRRE) in Ha Noi;

  5. Ha Noi Irradiation Center (HIC)

  6. Center for Nuclear Technique in Ho Chi Minh City (CNT);

  7. Research and Development Center for Radiation Technology (VINAGAMMA);

  8. Technology Application and Development Company (NEAD); and

  9. Nuclear Training Center (NTC)

The functions and duties of the VAEI

  1. Conduct fundamental and applied research on nuclear science and engineering, nuclear reactor technology, nuclear fuel and material, radiation protection and nuclear safety, and radioactive waste management technology in service of economic development of the country;

  2. Develop technology, production and technical services in atomic energy and related fields in service of social and economic development;

  3. Study and formulate directions, strategies, planning and plans for atomic energy development in Viet Nam, participate in the formulation of law projects and regulatory documents in relation to atomic energy, and in the implementation of nuclear policies approved by the Government;

  4. Perform international cooperation in the filed of atomic energy, and participate in the implementation of international treaties pledged by Viet Nam;

  5. Provide technical support to the State management body on radiation protection and nuclear safety in the appraisal of radiation protection and nuclear safety, carry out radioactive environment monitoring, calibrate radiation facilities and dosimeters, develop technical infrastructures in the preparedness and response to radiological and nuclear incidents and accidents; and

  6. Participate in the planning and training of scientific and technical professionals in the field of atomic energy.

In addition, some R&D institutions have been involved in the study on the nuclear power development in Viet Nam, such as Institute of Energy (IE) and National Research Institute of Mechanical Engineering (NARIME) (under the Ministry of Industry and Trade - MOIT); Institute of Energy Science (IES) (under Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology - VAST)...

2.8.2 Development of advanced nuclear technologies

Not available

2.8.3 International co-operation and initiatives

Not available

2.9 Human resources development

On August 2010, the Prime Minister approved the Master Plan on Training and Developing of Human Resources in the Field of Atomic Energy from now until 2020 with the total budget of VND 3 trillions.

The Master Plan aims to provide a sufficient, high-quality workforce for the atomic power sector and meet demands for the safe and secure application of atomic energy in socio-economic fields as well as science and technology. A National Steering Committee will be set up to implement this project, led by a Deputy Prime Minister with the Minister of Education and Training as its permanent Vice Head.

From now until 2015, Viet Nam will plan and upgrade education centres that provide training for the atomic power sector, with an initial focus on five universities: Ha Noi University of Sciences (under Ha Noi National University), Ho Chi Minh City University of Sciences (under Ho Chi Minh City National University), Ha Noi University of Science and Technology, Da Lat University, University of Electric Power, and Nuclear Training Centre under the Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute (Ministry of Science and Technology );

By 2020 Vietnam will have trained 2,400 nuclear engineers, and 350 masters and PhDs for operating nuclear power plants and in terms of research, application and safety, the country will have trained a total of 650 engineers, and 250 masters and PhDs. In addition Vietnam will train another 100 masters and PhDs to teach nuclear energy at educational institutions.

2.10 Stakeholder Communication

A public information program on nuclear power should be carrying out synchronously with the nuclear power development program. It is necessary to regularly and closely coordinate activities of governmental agencies and relevant organizations to provide the public with the necessary knowledge on nuclear power, to ensure timely and transparent information, to create and maintain regular interaction and communication with the public aimed at always gathering public supports in all stages of the nuclear power project from the beginning and during the preparation and implementation of the project, and operating NPP.

The public information activities can be conducted in the following forms:

In 2011, MOST will submit to the Prime Minister a National Project on Information and Propaganda on Nuclear Power Development in Viet Nam

3. NATIONAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS

3.1 Regulatory framework

3.1.1 Regulatory authority(s)

Safety Authority

The Viet Nam Agency for Radiation and Nuclear Safety (VARANS) was established in 2004. VARANS is under the MOST and assists the MOST's Minister in exercising the state management of radiation protection and nuclear safety.

The functions and duties of VARANS

  1. To organize and participate in the building of legislative documents, code of practice, procedures and regulations for radiation and nuclear safety & control; to participate in the building of standards on radiation and nuclear safety, specific regulations and policies for those who work directly with the radiation;

  2. To make and then submit to the Minister policies, development orientations, priorities, programs, annual and 5-year plans on radiation and nuclear safety & control; to organize and implement approved plans;

  3. To organize and implement the notification, registration, license, renewal, amendment and withdrawal of licenses for radiation and nuclear establishments, radioactive sources, radiation personnel and works related to radiation and nuclear; to organize the assessment of sites, designs, construction, and justifications for ensuring the radiation and nuclear safety and the security of radiation and nuclear establishments;

  4. To guide and direct the Local Departments of Science & Technology on radiation and nuclear safety & control; to co-ordinate with Ministries, Branches to perform the State management on the radiation and nuclear safety & control under the MOST’s direction;

  5. To conduct regulatory inspections on radiation and nuclear safety according to law; to resolve complaints, denunciations; to deal with violations of regulations on radiation safety and control according to law;

  6. To perform the State management of radioactive wastes; to organize radiation environment monitoring, to develop emergency response and handling for radiation and nuclear incidents; to control radiation doses and assess the safety of occupational, public and medical exposure;

  7. To organize activities of safeguard;

  8. To establish an record system of data, information on radiation and nuclear safety;

  9. To organize research for applying scientific and technological advances in the field of radiation safety &control;

  10. To co-organize training courses, propaganda and dissemination programs on legislation, radiation & nuclear safety and safety culture;

  11. To organize and develop international cooperation activities in radiation and nuclear safety as assigned by the Ministry; to participate in the implementation of the international treaties and other international agreements on radiation and nuclear safety;

  12. To perform other duties assigned by the Minister of Science and Technology; to manage cadres, assets, files and documents of the Agency according to the ministry arrangement and regulation.

In addition, Electricity Regulatory Authority of Viet Nam and Agency for Safety Techniques and Industrial Environment (under MOIT), and some agencies under other Ministries (e.g. Ministry of Natural Resource and Environment) will participate in the licensing process.

3.1.2 Licensing Process

Licensing and inspection: VARANS issues or proposes the MOST to issue licenses for all activities related to radiation including import and export of radiation sources, radiation works, and radiation facilities. Every year inspection is carried out for some radiation organizations.

Regarding NPP projects, in accordance with Vietnam’s Atomic Law, Prime Minister will approve the NPP’s sites, the MOST’s Minister will issue licence for NPP’s construction, the MOIT’s Minister will issue licence for NPP’ commissioning and operation; the MOC’ Minister will issue licence to foreign investors to participate in the NPP projects.

3.2 Main national laws and regulations in nuclear power

  1. Ordinance on Radiation Safety & Control (ORSC) was passed on June 25th, 1996 by the Standing Committee of the National Assembly of the Socialist Republics of Viet Nam and went into effect on the 1st January 1997.

  2. Decree on the Detailed Directions for implementing of ORSC was enacted on July 16th, 1998 by the Prime Minister of the Socialist Republics of Viet Nam and went into effect on the 1st August 1998.

  3. Decree No. 51/2006/NÐ-CP dated May 19, 2006 stipulating regulations on sanctioning against administrative violation in radiation safety and control

  4. Decree No. 87/2006/NÐ-CP regulating the inspection organization and operation of the Ministry of Science and Technology

  5. Regulations No. 115/2007/QÐ-TTg dated July 23, 2007 on ensuring the security of radioactive sources

  6. Regulations No. 146/2007/QD-TTg dated September 04, 2007 for the recovery and handling of orphan radioactive sources

  7. Joint Circular No.2237/1999/TTLT/BKHCNMT-BYT between MOSTE and MOH on Guidelines in implementation of radiation safety in medical exposure was enacted on 28 December 1999.

  8. Decree on the penalty for violations of regulations on radiation safety and control was enacted on May, 2001 by the Prime Minister of the Socialist Republics of Viet Nam.

  9. Circular No.14/2003/TT-BKHCN dated July 11, 2003 guiding radiation transportation safety

  10. Circular No.05/2006/TT-BKHCN dated January 11, 2006 guiding the procedures of notification, registration and license issuance to radiation activities

  11. Circular No.10/2006/TT-BKHCN dated March 17, 2006 guiding specialized inspection on radiation safety and control

  12. Decision No.38/2006/QD-BTC dated July 24, 2006: Regulation of fees and charges for radiation safety assessment and verification

  13. Decision No 3616/2004/QÐ-BYT dated 4 October 2004 on the issuance of the Regulations on the safety and sanitation of food preserved by irradiation

  14. Document No.1092/2002/BKHCNMT-ATBX dated May 2, 2002 provisionally regulating license application and conditions for the use of X-ray medical devices

  15. Directive No.13/2006/CT-BKHCN dated June 07, 2006 on the enhancement of State administration of radiation safety and security

  16. Decision No. 17/2007/QÐ-BKHCN dated August 31, 2007 on the issuance of radioactive sources separation complying with security requirements

  17. Decision No. 32 /2007/QÐ-BKHCN enacting the regulation on examining medical diagnosis X-ray machines

  18. The Atomic Energy Law was approved by Vietnam National Assembly on the 3rd June 2008, comes into force on the 1st January 2009 and replaces the Ordinance on Radiation Safety & Control (ORSC)

  19. Decree on guidance for the implementation of several provisions of the Atomic Energy Law

  20. Decree on nuclear power plants.

  21. Decision No. 45/2010/QÐ-TTg dated June 14, 2010 enacting the Regulation on the activities of nuclear control

REFERENCES

APPENDIX 1: INTERNATIONAL, MULTILATERAL AND BILATERAL AGREEMENTS

A1.1. International treaties, conventions, and agreements signed/ratified by the country

Agreement on privileges and immunitiesEntry into forceJul. 1969
Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)Entry into forceJun. 1982
Supplementary agreement on provision of technical assistance by the IAEA Entry into forceMay 1983
Supplementary agreement on provision of technical assistance by the IAEA Entry into forceMay 1983
NPT related safeguards agreement INFCIRC/376Entry into forceFeb. 1990
Improved procedures for designation of safeguards inspectors Prefers to apply the present systemJun. 1990
RCAEntry into force:Aug. 1997
Convention on physical protection of nuclear materialNon-Party
Convention on early notification of a nuclear accident Entry into force1986
Convention on assistance in the case of a nuclear accident or radiological emergencyEntry into force Oct. 1987
Safeguards Agreement Entry into force1989
Bangkok Treaty: South East Asia Nuclear Weapons Free Zone signedDec. 1995
Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) ratifiedJan. 2006
Additional Protocolsigned Aug. 2007
Vienna convention on civil liability for nuclear damageNon-Party
Joint protocolNon-Party
Protocol to amend the Vienna convention on civil liability for nuclear damageNon-Party
Convention on supplementary compensation for nuclear damage Non-Party
Convention on nuclear safetyEntry into force Apr. 2010
Joint convention on the safety of spent fuel management and on the safety of radioactive waste managementNon-Party
ZANGGER CommitteeNon-Member
Nuclear Export Guidelines (INFCIRC/254)Adopted
Acceptance of NUSS CodesNo reply
Nuclear Suppliers GroupNon-Member

A1.2. Cooperation agreements with IAEA in area of NP

Became a Member State of the IAEA since June 1978, Socialist Republic of Viet Nam has been receiving the Agency's valuable assistances in many areas, contributing to the research, development and peaceful, safe and secure uses of nuclear energy in Viet Nam.

The IAEA's assistances have been covering many nuclear power-related aspects, such as energy and electricity planning, nuclear safety and security, development of legislative system... through providing equipment, materials, experts and man-power training

In 1987, Viet Nam received a WASP-III version for PC. At the same year, IAEA approved TC Project "Computer Centre for Reactor Physics (VIE/4/006).” WASP was installed in the PC Centre. Vietnamese researchers and energy planners carried out their energy/electricity planning studies by using WASP at this Centre.

From 1987, especially since 1996 many Vietnamese staff participated in the IAEA training courses in WASP energy planning and many IAEA expert missions were dispatched to Viet Nam.

In 1997, the IAEA approved TC project "Pre-Feasibility Study for Introduction of Nuclear Power in Viet Nam (VIE/0/009)". In order for implementation of the project, two Vietnamese working teams was set up, one for energy planning and economic study, the other for reactor technology, safety... Almost energy-related institutes and universities participated in and benefited by the project.

Since year 2000, Viet Nam has participated in the following energy-related regional projects: RAS/0/033: Role of Nuclear Power and Other Energy Options in Mitigating Green House Gas (GHG) Emissions; RAS/0/038: Role of Nuclear Power and Other Energy Options in Competitive Electricity Market; RAS/0/041: Tracing Future Sustainable Path through Nuclear and Other Energy Options; RAS/0/045: Formulation of Sustainable Energy Development strategies in the Context of Climate Change.

In order to meet Viet Nam’s requirements on support for consideration of launching nuclear power project, IAEA focused its supports in assisting Viet Nam to solve problems occurred in nuclear power development through the IAEA experts’ review and assessment of not only energy planning and economy but also other issues as suggested in the IAEA Publication: Milestone in the Development of a National Infrastructure for Nuclear Power (IAEA Nuclear Energy Series No. NG-G-3.1) aimed to carry out studies on national infrastructure development for nuclear power. Among the IAEA TC projects for the cycle 2009-2011, there are three projects directly supported nuclear power development in Viet Nam, namely, VIE/4/015 "Developing Nuclear Power Infrastructure"; VIE/9/011 "Improving the Capability for the site Characterization and Evaluation of New Nuclear Installation'; and VIE/9/013 "Strengthening the Technical Capacity of the Radiation and Nuclear Safety Regulatory Body". These proved to be very significant to setting up the nuclear power program in Viet Nam.

 

A1.3. Bilateral agreements with other countries or organizations signed/ratified by the country in the field of nuclear power

Viet Nam and the Government of the Republic of India for the

co-operation for utilization of atomic energy for peaceful purposes

 

 

APPENDIX 2: MAIN ORGANIZATIONS, INSTITUTIONS AND COMPANIES INVOLVED IN NUCLEAR POWER RELATED ACTIVITIES

 

NUCLEAR ENERGY AUTHORITY

Ministry of Science, Technology Tel: 84-4-3943 9731

39, Tran Hung Dao Tel: 84-4-3943 9733

Ha Noi, Viet Nam http://www.most.gov.vn

 

Viet Nam Agency for Radiation and Tel: 84-4-3941 0213

Nuclear Safety Fax: 84-4-3822 0298

4th Floor, 70 Tran Hung Dao http://www.varans.gov.vn/

Ha Noi, Viet Nam

 

Viet Nam Atomic Energy Agency Tel: 84-4-3941 2972

59 Ly Thuong Kiet Fax: 84-4-3941 2970

Ha Noi, Viet Nam

 

Ministry of Industry and Trade Tel: 84-4-3220 2222

54, Hai Ba Trung Tel: 84-4-3220 2525

Ha Noi, Viet Nam http://www.moit.gov.vn

 

OTHER ORGANIZATIONS

Viet Nam Atomic Energy Institute Tel: 84-4-3942 3479

59 Ly Thuong Kiet Fax: 84-4-3942 4133

Ha Noi, Viet Nam http://www.vaec.gov.vn

 

Institute for Nuclear Science

and Technique (INST) Tel: 84-4-3836 1432

5T-160, Hoang Quoc Viet Fax: 84-4-3836 3295

Ha Noi, Viet Nam

 

Nuclear Research Institute (NRI) Tel: 84-63-382 2191

1, Nguyen Tu Luc Fax: 84-63-382 1107

Da Lat, Viet Nam

 

Centre for Nuclear Techniques (CNT)

217, Nguyen Trai Tel: 84-8-3835 6568

Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam Fax: 84-8-3836 7381

 

Institute for Technology of Radioactive

and Rare Elements (ITRE)

48, Lang Ha Tel: 84-4-3776 0340

Ha Noi, Viet Nam Fax: 84-4-3835 0966

 

Vietnam Electricity (EVN) Tel: 84-4-2220 3881

18 Tran Nguyen Han Fax: 84-4-2220 1386

Ha Noi, Viet Nam http://www.evn.com.vn

 

Nuclear Power and Renewable Energy

Projects Pre-investment Board Tel: 84-4-3210 8822

36 Au Co, Tay Ho Fax: 84-4-3719 2507

Ha Noi, Viet Nam

 

Institute of Energy Tel: 84-4-3852 2532

6 Ton That Tung Fax: 84-4-3773 5361

Ha Noi, Viet Nam

 

Name of report coordinator:

Le Doan Phac (Mr.)

Deputy Director General

Institution: Vietnam Atomic Energy Agency

Ministry of Science and Technology

Contacts: 59 Ly Thuong Kiet, Ha Noi, Viet Nam

Tel.: +84-903 255 002

Fax.: +84-4-3941 2970

Email: Ldphac@most.gov.vn

Ldphac@yahoo.com

Attachments

Vietnam_2011.pdf