The Vietnamese steel industry is a core component of the national economy, currently ranking 13th in the world in steel production and leading the ASEAN region. At present, this sector accounts for 9.43% of the total energy consumption in the entire processing industry, with electricity and coal being the two main sources of energy. Preliminary audits indicate that energy savings ranging from 3% to 15% of total consumption can be achieved through the comprehensive application of technical and management solutions. Moreover, the policy and legal framework is increasingly imposing regulatory pressure, thereby promoting a transition in Vietnam’s steel industry toward more efficient energy use, reduced carbon emissions, and greater environmental friendliness. This transformation will help the industry better align with international best practices and support Vietnam’s commitments to climate change mitigation.

The research activities on developing and revising energy consumption norms are carried out within the framework of the project “Promoting the Market for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Investments in the Industrial Sector and Supporting the Implementation of Vietnam’s Green Growth Action Plan.” The project is implemented by the Ministry of Industry and Trade in cooperation with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

The study assessed the current status of the industry, reviewed existing energy policies and consumption rates, and referenced international experience to identify best practices and develop a methodology for updating energy consumption norms for Vietnam’s steel sector.

RCEE conducted a comprehensive survey and evaluation of Vietnam’s iron and steel industry, proposed new scenarios for energy consumption norms, and quantified the sector’s energy-saving potential, aiming to start implementation from 2026. Simultaneously, the study also assessed best industry practices to develop a Technical Guideline on Efficient and Economical Energy Use applicable to this sector.

Within the framework of the technical consultation workshop on the results of the research on developing and revising energy consumption norms for the Vietnamese steel industry, organized by RCEE on August 20, 2025, domestic and international experts presented their research findings. Representatives from businesses and industry associations also provided valuable contributions to the Ministry of Industry and Trade in the process of future policy planning.