A Legacy in Power: Engineer Ngô Thường San's 45-Year Journey and the Long Phú 1 Thermal Power Plant
On a June afternoon in Vietnam's Mekong Delta, the winds from the Hậu River flow through the former Sóc Trăng region, now part of Cần Thơ City. They carry the heat of construction sites and the scent of freshly excavated earth along the roads leading to the Long Phú 1 Thermal Power Plant. A continuous stream of vehicles moves along these access roads to the massive construction site. The sounds of machinery, metal cutting, and the crackle of communication devices from engineers echo across the emerging engineering marvel.
In this bustling atmosphere, the figure of an elderly man with silver hair but still sharp eyes walks around the construction site. This is Mr. Ngô Thường San, an electrical engineer who has dedicated 45 years of his party membership to Vietnam's power industry. This return is particularly emotional for him, as he witnesses firsthand the materialization of a project he helped design decades ago.
A 45-Year Journey in Vietnam's Power Sector
Born in 1950 in Sóc Trăng, Mr. Ngô Thường San demonstrated an early passion for engineering. In 1975, he graduated from Hanoi University of Technology with a degree in Electrical Engineering and began his career at the Electricity of the West Region.
Throughout his 45-year career, he has participated in numerous key power sector projects, from constructing transformer substations to developing thermal power plants. He held various important positions, from design engineer to Technical Department Head of the Southern Power Corporation (EVN). His expertise has been instrumental in shaping Vietnam's power infrastructure development.
Long Phú 1 Thermal Power Plant: Modern Technology for the Mekong Delta
The Long Phú 1 Thermal Power Plant stands as one of Vietnam's key energy projects, with a total capacity of 1,320 MW (2 units of 660MW each). The project applies the world's most advanced coal-fired thermal power technology, optimizing efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
| Technical Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Capacity | 1,320 MW |
| Technology | Supercritical coal-fired thermal power |
| Fuel Type | Coal |
| Steam Temperature | 566°C |
| Steam Pressure | 24.2 MPa |
| Construction Start | 2014 |
| Commercial Operation | 2022 (Unit 1), 2023 (Unit 2) |
The technology implemented at Long Phú 1 represents the most advanced current technology, achieving a thermal efficiency of up to 45%, significantly higher than older thermal power plants that typically achieve only 35-38% efficiency. This higher efficiency translates to reduced CO2 emissions per kWh of electricity produced.
Advanced Emission Reduction Technologies
The Long Phú 1 Thermal Power Plant is equipped with a modern exhaust gas treatment system including:
- High-efficiency electrostatic precipitators (ESP) for dust removal
- Wet flue gas desulfurization (FGD) system for SOx removal
- Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system for NOx reduction
- Closed-loop wastewater treatment system
- Advanced mercury emission control technology
These systems enable the plant to meet strict emission standards set by Vietnam's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, while also complying with the emission recommendations of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) for coal-fired power generation.
Mr. Ngô Thường San: A Witness and Contributor
Mr. Ngô Thường San shared: "It's truly emotional to return here and witness the materialization of a project I contributed to designing from the initial blueprints. The technologies we dreamed about 20 years ago are now a reality at Long Phú 1."
According to him, thermal power technology in Vietnam has made tremendous strides. "In the past, we had to import 100% of equipment and technology. Now, many domestic companies are participating in the supply chain, from auxiliary equipment to installation and operation."
| Development Milestones of Vietnam's Thermal Power Sector | Key Features |
|---|---|
| 1980s-1990s | Complete technology import, outdated technology |
| 2000-2010 | Technology transfer, beginning of domestic equipment production |
| 2010-Present | Application of modern technology, greater self-sufficiency in supply chain |
| Future Direction | Integration of digitalization, AI for optimization, carbon capture technology |
The Future Vision of Vietnam's Energy Sector
In the context of global energy transition, Mr. Ngô Thường San believes Vietnam needs to continue developing renewable energy sources while maintaining thermal coal power as a stable energy supply. "We need a harmonious combination of energy sources, with high-technology thermal coal power continuing to play an important role in ensuring national energy security."
He also emphasized the importance of training high-quality human resources: "To operate modern plants like Long Phú 1, we need engineers who are not only technically proficient but also adept with new technologies, capable of quickly adapting to change."
Technical Innovation and Local Content
The Long Phú 1 project represents a significant achievement in Vietnam's power sector development with a local content rate of approximately 35-40%. This includes civil works, installation, and manufacturing of certain components. The project has employed over 5,000 workers during peak construction periods, with Vietnamese engineers and technicians making up 70% of the technical workforce.
The plant's control system incorporates advanced Distributed Control System (DCS) technology with Vietnamese engineers having participated in programming and commissioning, marking a significant step in domestic capability development.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Despite being a coal-fired power plant, Long Phú 1 incorporates numerous environmental protection measures. The plant features a 132kV transmission system connecting to the national grid, reducing transmission losses. Additionally, the plant's ash is utilized in cement production, contributing to a circular economy approach.
The surrounding area has been developed with green buffer zones, and the plant includes a 50-hectare mangrove forest restoration project, demonstrating commitment to environmental sustainability alongside energy production.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence
Mr. Ngô Thường San's 45-year journey stands as a testament to Vietnam's power industry development. From a young engineer to witnessing the maturation of the power sector, he has contributed to bringing Vietnam's thermal power technology to regional standards.
The Long Phú 1 Thermal Power Plant is not just a key energy project but also a symbol of Vietnam's technological development and aspiration for self-reliance. Individuals like Mr. Ngô Thường San, with their passion and expertise, continue to contribute to writing new chapters in Vietnam's energy sector history.
As Vietnam continues its economic development journey, the balance between energy security, technological advancement, and environmental protection remains central. The Long Phú 1 project and the expertise of engineers like Mr. Ngô Thường San represent Vietnam's commitment to this balanced approach.
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