Professor Duc-Truong Dinh's ANU return

The ANU Crawford School of Public Policy is delighted to welcome back distinguished alumnus Professor Dr. Duc-Truong Dinh, who will be speaking at the upcoming Vietnam Policy and Economy Update 2024. As the Dean of the Faculty of Environmental, Climate Change and Urban Studies at Vietnam’s National Economics University (NEU), Professor Dinh brings a wealth of expertise in environmental and climate change economics. His presentation, titled What Motivates Rooftop Solar Power Adoption? Insights from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: A Combination of Behavioural and Contextual Theories, will feature in the conference’s session on Trade, Environment, and Resources. 

A Career Shaped by Crawford 

Professor Dinh’s academic journey at Crawford School from 2003 to 2005 laid the foundation for his distinguished career. As an AusAid Scholar, he completed a Graduate Diploma and a Master’s in Environmental Management and Development, gaining critical knowledge and skills that continue to influence his work. Reflecting on his time at ANU, he said, “Studying at Crawford and ANU was one of the most wonderful and memorable experiences of my life. The knowledge and skills I acquired here have shaped my thinking and methods forever, proving invaluable in my career and policy contributions in Vietnam.” 

Among the many highlights of his time at Crawford, Professor Dinh recalls the mentorship of Professors Jeff Bennett and Quentin Grafton, whose insights inspired his specialisation in resource and environmental assessment. “Their guidance encouraged me to pursue this field, and today I apply what I learned at ANU to analyze and develop environmental policies in Vietnam,” he added. 

Sharing Expertise on Renewable Energy 

In his presentation at the conference, Professor Dinh will discuss his research on the factors driving rooftop solar power adoption in Ho Chi Minh City. Using a blend of behavioural and contextual theories, his study identifies key determinants such as awareness, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control, alongside technical and financial support mechanisms. His findings have significant policy implications, including the need for streamlined administrative procedures, financial incentives, and direct electricity trading mechanisms to promote renewable energy investment. 

“Renewable energy is crucial to Vietnam’s efforts to achieve its 2050 net-zero emissions target,” said Professor Dinh. “This research highlights the role of behavioural insights in shaping policies that can drive the transition to sustainable energy.” 

A Global Perspective 

Throughout his career, Professor Dinh has enriched his expertise through international experiences, including roles as a Fulbright Scholar in the United States and a visiting professor in Germany. These experiences have broadened his perspective on global environmental challenges and underscored the importance of international collaboration in addressing climate change. 

A Special Homecoming 

Returning to ANU as a speaker is particularly meaningful for Professor Dinh. “This is a very special occasion - it feels like coming home,” he said. “The happiest part is knowing that the knowledge and skills I gained at ANU have helped me advance my career and contribute to Vietnam’s environmental policies. This opportunity to reconnect with ANU and share my research is a testament to the enduring connection between Australia and Vietnam.” 

As Professor Dinh takes the stage at the Vietnam Policy and Economy Update 2024 this Friday, his journey stands as a powerful example of how education and collaboration transcend borders, fostering solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.