Renewable Energy in Southeast Asia

Abstract

Abstract: 

Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, offer great promise in the fight against climate change. The use of these clean energy sources can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help mitigate the impacts of global warming. One of the biggest advantages of renewable energy is that it is sustainable and does not deplete natural resources. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and create harmful emissions when burned, renewable energy sources can be replenished naturally and emit little to no greenhouse gasses. This makes them a crucial component in the transition to a low-carbon economy and a sustainable future.

Solar energy has great potential in Southeast Asia due to the region's high levels of solar irradiation. Several countries in the region, including Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, have implemented policies and incentives to encourage the deployment of solar energy systems.

Hydropower is another significant source of renewable energy in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries with large rivers and mountainous regions such as Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. However, the development of large hydropower projects has faced criticism due to their potential environmental and social impacts.

Wind energy is less prevalent in Southeast Asia, but there are increasing efforts to develop wind power in some countries, such as Vietnam and the Philippines. However, the region's low wind speeds and limited land availability for wind turbines have limited the potential for large-scale deployment.

But what is the status of the uptake of solar, wind, and hydropower energies? This paper focuses on South East Asia and the uptake of renewable energies in the past two decades. We focus on the different laws and policies in place in multiple countries and how those laws have been implemented in the countries, and what remains to be done.