An Overview Introduction to Low-Head Hydropower in Vietnam: : Visions towards a Greener Vietnam 2030 and Beyond

To date, hydropower is the least expensive among all types of natural renewable energy sources. The possibilities for developing low-head hydropower in Vietnam are immense, and maybe unequivocally the longer-term solution to sustainable energy production in Vietnam. With the enormous amount of low-head energy in the Mekong and more than 3500 miles of coastline, a combination of hydropower and wave-energy technologies will pave the path towards zero-Carbon emissions in the future. Extending the possibilities, which low-head and wave energy collectively provide, it is reasonable to conclude that low-head hydropower and wave energy must be included in the National renewable energy portfolio and perceived as a contributor to the long-term socioeconomic development in Vietnam.As educators and researchers, we must contribute towards the collection of knowledge gained through exploring low-head hydropower and wave energy, and the resulting innovation, which in a multitude of ways, can transform the society. In this context, we propose to establish a Center at the Ho Chi Minh University of Technology (HCMUT) that will advance water power technologies with innovative ideas and aid the long-term integration of natural renewable sources in Vietnam. Through academia, industry, and government partnerships, the Center will focus on research, scalable prototype development and testing, and full-scale pilot plant demonstrations, to enable the transformation of the Mekong Delta in meeting all its energy needs through effective use of water resources.