About this report
Southeast Asia is experiencing one of the fastest electricity demand growths globally, with consumption set to double by 2050. While renewable deployment has accelerated in recent years, the region’s growing reliance on imported fossil-fuels for electricity generation, exposes countries to volatile fuel prices, potential supply disruptions and rising emissions. At the same time, the region possesses vast and diverse renewable resource potential.
Variable renewable energy (VRE) – solar and wind – are now among the most cost-competitive generation options and are playing an increasingly important role in the region’s power sector. VRE presents an opportunity for the region to meet rising demand, support energy security, affordability and climate goals. However, integrating higher shares of VRE can present technical and regulatory challenges that require changes to system operation and planning.
This report provides a comprehensive assessment of the readiness of Southeast Asia’s power sector to integrate higher shares of VRE – identifying opportunities and key considerations. It reviews technical and regulatory measures that are being implemented and applies the IEA’s six-phases of VRE integration framework to assess potential challenges within the context of each country’s power system.
Drawing on this assessment, the report outlines practical actions for policymakers, regulators, utilities and regional entities from 2025 to beyond 2030, corresponding to different phases of VRE integration and readiness.