In a document dated April 14, the MoC responded to the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) regarding the inclusion of two more hydropower projects on the Red River in Lao Cai province. Both the Thai Nien and Bao Ha hydroelectric projects will each have a capacity of 75MW, with four units apiece.

To assure accordance with regulations, the MoC stated that a comprehensive appraisal of the related hydropower project hierarchy for the two projects is essential. It will also be necessary to conduct a further assessment of the lake, the dam, and related works, to satisfy the technical requirements and ensure the safety of those living downstream.

In addition, the MoC is to evaluate the design for the project's connection to the regional power grid, the selection of operations manager, and the project's investment and construction plans.

"Additional planning documents should be reviewed and updated, particularly the ecological impact evaluation and the maintenance and governance of water resources for irrigation in the lower Red River area," the MoC stated.

The contents proposed in the additional planning dossier should be researched and designed on the basis of geological and hydrogeological survey data that will provide sufficient basis for ensuring the safety of reservoirs and dams. According to regulations, the design plan for hydropower reservoirs and structures must also be certified by the relevant agencies.

For the suggested 75MW capacity of the projects, the MoC believes this should be based on the technical specifications of the construction area's power system. The MoIT is responsible for evaluating the project's additional planning documents to ensure legality and ensuring that the approved Power Development Plan contains the proper targets and requirements.

According to additional planning documents incorporated in a document dated March 6, the Thai Nien and Bao Ha hydropower projects are part of the same hydropower cascade.

During the evaluation of hydropower project planning, the MoIT consulted the ministries of Natural Resources and Environment; Agriculture and Rural Development; Transport, Planning and Investment; and Culture, Sports, and Tourism, among others.