Today we visited PECC2, one of the largest energy companies in Vietnam. They’ve constructed more than 100 large-scale power projects across the country. Although their current largest power generation method comes from coal, they are making a shift towards renewable energy. This push aligns with the Vietnamese government’s goal of reducing GHG emissions by 15% by 2030. Investing in renewables is especially important for Vietnam as they are a high risk country for devastating climate change effects. Much of the country’s food is produced in the Mekong river delta. Rising sea levels threaten to submerge this land and to increase salinity up the river. These conditions will cause billions of dollars worth of lost production. It is in the best interest of Vietnam to fight climate change.

The company visit today highlighted the steps PECC2 is taking to help achieve ambitious emissions targets. They have strategically invested resources into building their consulting services. Many companies and real estate developments need assistance in planning solar panel roofs and other renewable energy investments in order to meet government goals. Beyond this, PECC2 has decided to produce no more coal or hydroelectric plants. This decision will decrease environmental effects from power production in the future. All of their new energy projects use solar, wind, natural gas, or other cleaner methods to produce electricity. During the visit I got the vibe that PECC2 is confident that rapid change and growth is possible. They seem to have no doubt they will smash the goals set for them by the government.