Southeast Asia replaces solar sites with environmentally friendly electricity

Can Southeast Asia transform energy access in rural communities?

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Southeast Asia has significant untapped solar, wind, biomass, and small-scale hydropower potential, which could transform energy access in rural communities (R. capacity Statistics, 2022; Huang et al., 2025; Winsly et al., 2025; Boateng et al., 2025).

What is the energy transition in Southeast Asia?

The Southeast Asia Energy Transition is gaining speed, with solar and wind capacity growing by 20% in 2023. That brings the total to over 28 GW, making up 9% of all electricity generation capacity in the region. Vietnam stands out as a leader.

Could solar and wind power the future of Southeast Asia?

With an estimated 20 terawatts of untapped solar and wind potential – equivalent to around 55 times the region’s current total power capacity – even a fraction of this could meet future demand while strengthening energy security. Solar and wind are now among the most cost-competitive options for new electricity generation across Southeast Asia.

Will the Southeast Asia Energy Transition become a global model?

That means fossil fuels still generate the bulk of power across the region. The Southeast Asia Energy Transition is at a key turning point. With $70 billion in projected investments by 2025, the energy transition could become a global model, especially if nations convert potential into projects at the required speed.