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In a significant technological breakthrough, a local research team has successfully implemented an intelligent lighting system powered by solar energy, complemented by Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. This innovation aims to address the critical lack of infrastructure and access to the national grid in border and island areas, where effective and sustainable lighting solutions are urgently needed.
Developed by researchers from a private sector company, the project has undergone successful trials across various border and island locations in Vietnam. Results from these trials demonstrate the system’s robust operation, providing essential lighting for daily activities and security while minimising environmental impact.
Dr Nguyen Doan Ket, Head of the Research Team, highlighted the system’s advanced features, which include IoT sensors for real-time data collection on light levels, temperature, humidity, and battery status. This data is transmitted to a central control centre for remote monitoring and management. Integrated AI capabilities analyse collected data, predict operational needs, and optimise system performance to maximise lighting efficiency and prolong battery life.
Central to the system are solar panels that convert sunlight into electricity, coupled with storage batteries for continuous power supply. A smart controller coordinates system functions, while high-efficiency LED lights ensure adequate illumination with minimal energy consumption.
Dr Tran Thi Hanh from the Vietnam Institute of Energy Science underscored the project’s broader implications, emphasising its role in not only fulfilling basic lighting requirements but also pioneering the application of renewable energy and smart technologies across various sectors.
This initiative marks a significant stride towards sustainable development and technological innovation, promising to set new benchmarks in off-grid lighting solutions for remote and underserved areas.
Vietnam is deeply committed to advancing sustainability as a core pillar of its development strategy. With a strong focus on renewable energy, environmental conservation, and sustainable urban planning, the nation aims to foster economic growth while ensuring long-term environmental resilience and leadership in sustainable practices within the region.
Vietnam’s Ministry of Planning and Investment’s Enterprise Development Department (EDD) is leading a comprehensive digital transformation programme from 2021 to 2025, emphasising sustainability. In collaboration with various ministries, sectors, and localities, the initiative aims to enhance awareness and adoption of digital technologies across Vietnamese businesses.
Deputy Director Nguyen Duc Trung highlighted the programme’s success in promoting sustainable practices, encouraging enterprises to digitise data, streamline operations, and adopt technologies that support environmental resilience and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
This strategy is epitomised in the promotion of sustainability in agriculture through innovative digital solutions, as demonstrated by the introduction of an electronic traceability system for dragon fruits in Binh Thuan. Launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP), this system enables local and international consumers to scan QR codes and trace the origin of dragon fruits.
It provides transparency on the environmental practices employed during production, crucially aiding in monitoring and reducing greenhouse gas emissions within the supply chain. This initiative not only supports local farmers in adhering to global environmental standards but also enhances Vietnam’s position in high-end export markets by adopting carbon border adjustments.
Furthermore, Vietnam’s commitment to digital transformation in agriculture was underscored during the event by Deputy Minister Hoang Trung. He highlighted the establishment of the Centre for Digital Transformation and Agricultural Statistics, emphasising its role in overseeing IT initiatives and enhancing information security within the ministry.
This strategic approach not only facilitates efficient production of high-quality agricultural goods but also ensures maximum profitability for farmers, marking a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable Vietnam.