On June 24, the Gia Lai Provincial People's Committee announced decisions approving investors for two floating solar power projects.

Since 2020, numerous investors have participated in the development of wind and solar energy projects in Gia Lai. However, this is the first time the province has selected investors to develop floating solar facilities on reservoir surfaces.

The projects underwent assessment and appraisal by provincial departments and local authorities. Environmental protection was identified as the top priority, as the reservoirs serve as long-term sources of water for domestic use and agricultural production.

The Kanak Floating Solar Power Plant will be developed by EVNGENCO2. The project has a planned capacity of 40MW and is expected to generate approximately 71,770MWh of electricity in its first year of operation.

The project will be located in Kbang Commune and carries an estimated investment of more than VND 779 billion (approximately USD 30 million). Investor equity will account for 30 per cent of the funding, with the remaining 70 per cent financed through loans from credit institutions.

The second project, the Plei Tho Ga 2 Floating Solar Power Plant combined with a battery energy storage system, will be developed by Plei Tho Ga Energy Joint Stock Company. It is designed with a capacity of 20MW and expected annual output of around 37,995MWh.

The project is estimated to cost VND 450 billion (approximately USD 17.3 million), with 20 per cent funded by investor capital and 80 per cent raised from external sources. The project's operating term is set at 50 years.

Together, the two projects are expected to provide renewable electricity to the national grid, helping strengthen energy security and support the socio-economic development of Gia Lai Province.

Provincial authorities have required investors to avoid the use of chemical cleaning agents during operations. Instead, they are encouraged to use automated dry-cleaning robots or purified reverse-osmosis water to clean solar panels in order to protect water quality.

Investors must also install automatic water-quality monitoring systems, conduct regular environmental monitoring and share data with relevant state agencies.

In addition, project developers will be responsible for repairing roads damaged during the transport of equipment and materials and ensuring that construction and operation activities do not negatively affect local communities, land resources or property.

Authorities have also required the use of machinery and equipment with clear origins and modern technology that does not fall under categories of outdated, polluting technologies. Equipment selection must prioritise energy efficiency, environmental protection and include plans for the treatment and recycling of solar panels at the end of their operational life.