The projects include two 110kV transformer stations, one in South Phu Quoc and the other in North Phu Quoc, at a cost of VND61.2 billion and VND71 billion, respectively.

In addition, VND156 billion will be spent on a 110kV Phu Quoc switching station, while VND2.21 trillion will be allocated for construction of two 110kV power lines and a 220kV line connecting the mainland of Kien Binh Commune in Kien Luong District with Phu Quoc island.

Vo Quoc Tuan, director of the SPC Project Management Board, said the power works are expected to become operational within this year.

However, those projects are meeting difficulties in land clearance and finding measures to reduce impacts on the protective forests at the proposed areas, according to Tuan.

Pham Vu Hong, chairman of the provincial People’s Committee, has asked Phu Quoc authorities and the SPC to step up communications to help local residents understand benefits of the power projects and devise suitable compensation and land clearance plans.

Kien Giang Province targets mobilising $9.5 billion for socio-economic development by 2020 and $45 billion by 2030.