On September 8, 2026, Quang Tri province held a meeting with the Vietnam Electricity Group (EVN), the National Power Transmission Corporation (EVNNPT), and the Central Power Corporation (EVNCPC) to discuss the implementation of the adjusted Power Planning VIII and the development needs of the electricity system in the area.

According to Luu Viet Tien, Deputy General Director of EVNNPT, the corporation currently manages and operates six substations in Quang Tri with a total capacity of 2,275 MVA, including two 500 kV substations and four 220 kV substations. The transmission system also comprises eight 500 kV transmission lines totaling over 840 km, connecting major power sources such as Quang Trach and Vung Ang, while enhancing regional grid connectivity.

At the 220 kV level, EVNNPT manages 12 lines with a total length of nearly 450 km, which not only facilitates the connection of local wind power sources but also increases the interconnection capacity between load areas and power sources.

In 2025 and the first eight months of 2026, the power transmission grid in the area operated safely and stably, meeting the electricity supply needs for socio-economic development. However, some lines and transformers have begun to experience high load conditions, indicating that the existing system's capacity is narrowing while the demand for electricity and the need to release capacity from local power sources continue to rise.

Thus, the challenge is not only to ensure sufficient electricity in the short term but also to enhance transmission capacity to accommodate new power sources, preventing the grid from becoming a bottleneck in the local energy development process.

According to the adjusted Power Planning VIII, EVNNPT is implementing five transmission projects in Quang Tri, including one 500 kV project and four 220 kV projects. Notably, the 500 kV LNG Hai Lang - Quang Tri line is currently in the investment preparation phase and is expected to be energized simultaneously with the new power source. This project is significant for releasing capacity from new power sources and improving the transmission system's connectivity in Central Vietnam.

For the 220 kV grid, the project to enhance the load capacity of the 220 kV Dong Hoi - Dong Ha line is expected to start in the third quarter of 2026 and be energized in the fourth quarter of 2026. The second line is scheduled to commence in 2027 and be completed in 2028.

The 220 kV Dong Ha - Hue line 3 is also targeted to start in the third quarter of 2026 and be energized in the fourth quarter of 2026. Preparatory work for this project is underway, with some contracts already signed, while the procurement of materials, equipment, and construction continues to be organized according to regulations.

EVNNPT is also implementing a project to increase the capacity of the 220 kV Lao Bao substation by installing a new 250 MVA transformer and related equipment, with plans to start in the fourth quarter of 2026 and energize in the third quarter of 2027.

At the 220 kV Dong Hoi substation, the existing 125 MVA transformer will be replaced with a 250 MVA unit, with construction expected to begin in July 2027 and energization planned for April 2028.

The simultaneous enhancement of substation capacity and the increase in load capacity of transmission lines indicate that the transmission system in this area is being strengthened in both directions: increasing the capacity to receive new electricity and expanding the supply capacity for load.

Despite a clear project list, significant challenges remain in the execution process, particularly in areas outside construction. EVNNPT noted that the implementation of a transmission project depends on numerous procedures, including route agreements, project location approvals, investment policy approvals, investor approvals, compensation, support, resettlement, and construction organization.

Therefore, EVNNPT has requested the Quang Tri Provincial People's Committee to continue directing relevant departments and sectors to collaborate in resolving difficulties, especially accelerating compensation and land clearance for ongoing projects.

Another request is to synchronize the power planning with local planning. EVNNPT also urged the province to fully update the list of projects in the adjusted Power Planning VIII into the provincial planning and land use planning; proactively arrange land funds for electricity projects in the annual land use plan and make it public to provide a basis for investors to proceed.

For transmission projects that can be implemented through socialization, EVNNPT has suggested that the locality select suitable investors in accordance with Resolution No. 70-NQ/TW dated August 20, 2025, of the Politburo and Electricity Law No. 61/2024/QH15.

Le Hong Vinh, Chairman of the Quang Tri Provincial People's Committee, emphasized that the electricity system, especially the transmission grid, plays a crucial role not only in meeting load demands but also in enabling the locality to exploit energy potential and attract investment.

The province will continue to cooperate with EVN, EVNNPT, and related units to resolve investment, land, compensation, and clearance procedures; while also updating and synchronizing the electricity projects in the adjusted Power Planning VIII with local planning.

Pham Hong Phuong, Deputy General Director of EVN, also urged EVNNPT to concentrate resources, adhere to the progress of each project, and proactively collaborate with localities to address arising issues.

According to EVN leaders, investing in a synchronized transmission system is not only to meet current electricity supply needs but also to lay the foundation for connecting and releasing capacity from power sources, enhancing regional grid connectivity, and supporting long-term development goals for Quang Tri.

With its energy potential and strategic location on the North-Central transmission axis, Quang Tri has significant room for developing new power sources. However, this potential can only be translated into actual development capabilities if the transmission system is invested in quickly and adequately.

As some existing lines and transformers have begun to experience high loads, the progress of the 500 kV and 220 kV projects will play a crucial role in determining the ability to release power sources, ensure load demands, and attract new investment projects in the province in the coming years.