Industrial Electrical Contractors at VSIP 1: Infrastructure Expansion Challenges

This article offers detailed insights into the electrical infrastructure at VSIP 1 Industrial Park, covering management, bidding processes, and the challenges faced during implementation and operation.

Infrastructure Details at VSIP 1

The electrical system at VSIP 1 is designed with modernity to meet the industrial development needs. It features large substations and numerous 110kV electric stations, ensuring constant and stable power supply. To function effectively, the electrical system is closely monitored and managed, optimizing performance and minimizing potential incidents.

VSIP I at Binh Duong exemplifies advanced electrical infrastructure integration that guarantees stable electricity for industrial production. Connecting directly to the national grid through 110KV and 220KV intermediary stations, its main substation reaches a capacity of 141 MVA, securing reliable power for production activities and contributing to sustainable industrial growth.

A notable feature of VSIP I’s electrical infrastructure is its specialized power distribution system. Step-down transformers are installed at each factory, tailoring voltage adjustments to specific business needs. Emphasis on renewable energy includes rooftop solar power using technology from Singapore’s Sembcorp Industries, which not only reduces the load on the main grid but also enhances performance management.

With a capacity of over 6.3 MW for 6 major investors, the system continuously upgrades to accommodate increased demands, especially as the zone expands to 1,000 hectares. Its resilience against challenges like flooding, thanks to a ground elevation of 25-30 meters above sea level, is an added advantage.

Supporting the electrical infrastructure are auxiliary systems like fire safety, optical fiber communication with up to 2GB bandwidth, and clean water supply of 40,000m³/day. These components crucially maintain uninterrupted and efficient industrial operations. By merging Singapore’s cutting-edge technology with abundant local resources, VSIP I maintains its competitive edge.

Management and Bidding Processes

The Binh Duong Power Company and VSIP 1’s industrial electrical contractors oversee the management, operation, and bidding for projects involving the electrical system. The bidding process is conducted openly and transparently, ensuring the selection of top-tier partners. Contractors at VSIP 1 must meet high technical standards and comply with legal regulations on constructing and installing electrical systems.

Key Management Units

A principal entity in managing the electrical bidding process is the national bidding network, which the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) administers to centralize bidding management in Vietnam. Particularly, the Procurement Management Department, an MPI branch, oversees and evaluates bid documents for fairness and transparency. In electricity bidding, Vietnam Electricity Group (EVN) plays a significant role by publicly announcing contractor selection plans and synchronizing information with the national network, conducting bidding under the 2023 Procurement Law and related guidelines.

Bidding Process for Electrical Systems

1. Registration and Preparation: Contractors register on the national bidding network at https://muasamcong.mpi.gov.vn, selecting roles as either contractor or investor. Meanwhile, EVN or related project entities upload detailed bid information, including rigorous technical requirements.
2. Bid Submission: Contractors submit electronic bids via the platform, ensuring the use of legal digital signatures for verification. An important requirement for valid bids is adherence to electronic bid bond conditions if applicable, enhancing transparency in bidding management.
3. Opening and Evaluation: The bid opening process occurs online, publicly reviewing documents on a predetermined day, allowing all stakeholders to observe and assess. Evaluation criteria include bid price, technical capabilities of the bidder, and past experience. These factors are meticulously reviewed by the Bidding Council or an authorized entity.
4. Result Presentation and Contract Signing: The selected contractor’s results are submitted to authorities such as the investor or related ministries for approval. Subsequently, results are announced on the national bidding system, followed by electronic contract signing via digital signatures between the contractor and the inviting party.

Supporting Tools and Technology

The national e-bidding system provides a comprehensive integrated solution for posting information, submitting bids, opening bids, and electronic payments while ensuring the evaluation process is transparent. Additionally, mandatory use of digital signatures by both contractors and inviting parties offers an effective mechanism for identity and legal verification in the bidding of electrical systems.

Legal Framework

The legal foundation for bidding activities includes the 2023 Procurement Law and Decree No. 24/2024/ND-CP, offering detailed regulations and guidelines on network bidding, electronic contracting, and electronic guarantees, thereby ensuring transparency throughout the electrical bidding process.

Current Operational Challenges

The electrical system at VSIP 1 currently faces numerous challenges, such as rapid industrial zone growth leading to occasional overloads. Contractors must continually optimize the system and employ innovative technologies to enhance efficiency. These challenges necessitate advanced technical solutions and effective management strategies.

Managing and operating the electrical system at VSIP 1 is a complex task, especially amid strong industrialization pressures.

Current Power Supply Infrastructure

• Electricity Supply: Backed by substations with a total capacity of 141 MVA, directly connected to the national grid, catering to factories’ fundamental needs.
• Infrastructure: Includes a stable electrical grid with 110KV and 220KV main substations strategically positioned. However, maintaining system stability demands constant attention and appropriate adjustment.

Operational Challenges

1. Power Loss: An essential issue affecting economic efficiency. Loss can occur at substations and along transmission lines.
2. High Power Demand: Unceasing industrial zone development leads to greater electricity needs, requiring new power planning and upgrades.
3. System Maintenance: Regular maintenance and management are vital to ensure substation and system efficiency.
4. Integrating Renewable Energy: Incorporating renewable solutions like solar or wind energy faces technical hurdles and new management demands.
5. Safety and Stability: The complexity of large industrial equipment requires stable and secure planning for the electrical system.
6. Long-term Development Planning: Planning must be proactive, ensuring growth needs are met.

Brands like ABB, Mitsubishi, and Schneider provide essential technology to tackle some of these challenges. Combining advanced technology with dedicated management can help overcome hurdles in electricity system management and operation at VSIP 1.

Investing in electrical infrastructure at VSIP 1 offers significant advantages and growth opportunities to local industries. However, management and operational challenges require innovative technical solutions and strategic management approaches. Collaboration between electrical contractors and management entities is critical to success.

For consultancy and collaboration with reputable contractors, contact QuangAnhcons via Hotline: +84 9 1975 8191.

QuangAnhcons offers design and installation consultancy services for industrial electrical systems, ensuring high quality to meet stable and continuous usage needs.