This is the first FDI hydropower project in the northern mountainous region, including capital from the UK, Switzerland and Australia.

Covering an area in Bat Xat and Sapa districts, the plant has a total investment of nearly US$50 million and a capacity of 29.7 MW.

It was invested in by the Lao Cai Renewable Energy (Vietnam) Joint Stock Company and constructed by the Zhejiang Hydropower Construction and Installation Limited Company (China).

All three turbines of the plant have joined the national grid and will generate commercial electricity starting April 29, 2016.

The plant will generate 120 million kWh of electricity annually on the national grid, creating substantial revenue for Lao Cai province's budget in the coming years.

The plant aims to provide a clean and renewable energy source, helping 130,000 local residents gain access to a sustainable power supply at a reasonable price.

In addition, the project will reduce carbon emissions and electricity imports for the province, as well as create more jobs for local people. It also has an important significance in developing the local economy and ensuring the environment and social security in the province.

The opening ceremony of the Coc San Hydropower Plant (Credit: NDO)