Vietnam pledges no new coal plants after 2030

13 Sept 19:56 Key points summarised by AI

Vietnam commits to halting new coal power plant development after 2030, as outlined in its long-delayed Power Development Plan 8 (PDP8), aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The $135-billion plan projects coal's share in the energy mix to decrease from 50% to 20% by 2030, with a complete phase-out by 2050 through a shift to zero-emission fuels like biomass or ammonia.
Critics argue the transition is too slow, as the plan allows all already-approved and under-construction coal projects to proceed until 2030, which could significantly boost current coal capacity.
Vietnam targets significant growth in solar power, aiming for 50% of office and residential buildings to use self-produced solar by 2030, despite current infrastructure limitations hindering broader adoption.
Wealthy countries have pledged $15.5 billion through the Just Energy Transition Partnership to support Vietnam's accelerated transition away from coal.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.