Accelerating the construction of power infrastructure for APEC 2027 in Phú Quốc

Power infrastructure development for APEC 2027 in Phú Quốc is progressing with urgency and coordination among key electricity-grid projects, local authorities, and Vietnam Electricity (EVN). The objective is to ensure a stable, safe, and uninterrupted power supply for the international-scale event.

In early April 2026, a task force from EVN and the Southern Power Corporation (EVNSPC) conducted on-site checks in Phú Quốc and Thổ Chu Island. The teams reviewed progress, assessed the current electricity supply capacity, and pushed forward key projects to serve APEC 2027.

Three-pillar development approach

The overall plan is built around three pillars: upgrading grid infrastructure, strengthening a stable supply from the mainland, and developing a high-capacity backup system. Ongoing work includes upgrading substations, building 110kV transmission lines, and applying smart technology to operate the power system in key areas such as the conference center, accommodations, and event venues.

Undergrounding the grid is prioritized to support urban aesthetics, improve safety, and reduce operational risk. Phú Quốc is also pursuing an integrated, green, clean, and intelligent infrastructure approach to support APEC 2027 and provide a foundation for longer-term development.

Progress on key power-grid projects (as of March 30, 2026)

According to the An Giang Provincial People’s Committee, several major projects have recorded notable results as of March 30, 2026:

• 110kV Phú Quốc – Nam Phú Quốc line: nearly 20 km long with 79 towers. Land acquisition covers more than 37,700 m2. Of the 79 tower foundations, 70 have been handed over and are currently being worked on to meet scheduled deadlines.
• 110kV Phú Quốc – Bắc Phú Quốc line: about 20 km long with 75 towers. Only 19 foundations have been handed over, due to routing adjustments through forested areas and related land-use procedures.
• 220kV Phú Quốc substation: land use exceeds 49,500 m2, mainly forest land. Handover of forest land has been completed, and compensation and assistance plans for affected households have been approved. Related procedures, including permits for mineral extraction, forestry, and waste disposal, have also been completed.

Remaining challenges: land clearance and compensation

Despite progress, challenges remain, particularly in land clearance. The transmission lines pass through multiple areas affecting dozens of households and organizations. The scope of surveying and the limited workforce for clearance have created difficulties, while issues related to compensation rates and land-law procedures, along with partial public disagreement, have affected overall timelines.

Strategic projects and acceleration efforts

Three projects—the 220kV Phú Quốc substation, the 110kV Phú Quốc – Bắc Phú Quốc line, and the 110kV Phú Quốc – Nam Phú Quốc line—are identified as strategic due to their importance for energy security and socio-economic development of Phú Quốc Special Administrative-Economic Unit, especially to support the APEC 2027 summit.

EVNSPC, the Southern Power Projects Management Board, and contractors have concentrated resources to accelerate construction. Since work began, EVNSPC leadership has regularly visited sites to monitor and supervise progress, while holding meetings and submitting reports to An Giang’s authorities and Phú Quốc to address obstacles, particularly compensation and clearance issues.

Local directives and coordination to meet milestones

In response, An Giang’s leadership issued directives to complete construction and bring facilities online before key milestones supporting economic and social development and APEC 2027. The province also urged the government to consider special mechanisms to streamline procedures and allow parallel steps for land clearance and compensation.

Top officials provided direct instructions and established a coordinating plan with EVNSPC, forming a steering committee for electricity projects and appointing a senior provincial vice-chairman as head. Departments and the Phú Quốc Special Administrative Region were tasked with developing detailed plans per project and site, assigning responsibility to leaders, and mobilizing the entire political system. Support and close coordination with the electricity sector were maintained to resolve difficulties and bottlenecks.

With coordinated efforts between EVN and An Giang’s authorities, preparations for electricity infrastructure for APEC 2027 are advancing. The work is described as both technical and politically significant, contributing to the event’s overall success and demonstrating Vietnam’s capability to organize and operate large-scale international events.