In order to secure financial support from the Asian Development Bank, BIM Group was required to complete environmental and social (E&S) impact assessment and compliance audit for a large wind power project in Ninh Thuan Province, Vietnam.

As the consultant for BIM group, Arup provided comprehensive impact assessments on the people, land, water, climate and ecological environment against typical wind farm impact such as noise, shadow flickers and safety risks using our robust and scientific expertise. We proposed a management plan with mitigation measures to reduce the environmental impact on the ecosystem and social life.

Arup’s assessment and proposed management plan contributed to the balance between economic development and social benefits brought by the wind farm project, which was designed to offset about 215,000 tons of carbon dioxide annually. The wind farm was a crucial step for Vietnam’s transition to a low carbon economy.

Driving Vietnam’s net zero journey

To meet its ambitious net-zero commitment by 2050, Vietnam is aiming for a 50% share of renewable energy for power supply by 2045. Wind power is expected to be a major contributor to the energy mix, driving the country’s next phase of renewable energy transition process.

The 88MW onshore wind farm project with 22 wind turbine generators is thus a crucial step along Vietnam’s journey towards net-zero – it is designed to offset about 215,000 tons of carbon dioxide annually. 

Our E&S impact assessment and audit has helped BIM Group secure ADB’s financial aid to proceed the project.   

Mitigating environmental and social impacts

On top of our assessment, we have proposed a management plan with a variety of mitigation measures to reduce the environmental impacts brought by the project to the ecological system and social life.

For instance, we proposed using bat repellers and limiting cut-in speed to minimise collision risks for birds and bats. While the noise impact also brought to the attention, we have applied stringent maintenance schedule and modern technology for wind turbines, allowing the turbines to be shutting down in the proposed time periods to reduce the impacts of shadow flickers and noise on local people.

Preventing flooding

Our high-level climate risk assessment finds that flooding due to heavy rainfall events, thunderstorms and tropical cyclones can potentially damage the wind infrastructure and increase the chances of power disruptions. 

In response, we provided proposals on the design of drainage systems, turbine foundations, and other components to accommodate increased precipitation, ensure effective storm water flow, and reduce flood risk.