Deploying Renewables in Southeast Asia: Trends and Potentials
Executive Summary
This working paper, authored by Samantha Ölz and Milou Beerepoot from the International Energy Agency (IEA), provides an in-depth analysis of the current status and potential for renewable energy deployment in the ASEAN-6 countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam).
Introduction
The paper outlines the current state of the energy sector in these countries, focusing on primary energy, electricity production, heat production, and the transport sector. It also discusses the policy support mechanisms and driving forces behind renewable energy deployment.
Current Status of the Energy Sector in the ASEAN-6
1. Primary Energy
The ASEAN-6 countries rely heavily on fossil fuels for their primary energy needs, with significant variations across the region. Key findings include:
- Indonesia: Large coal reserves and significant natural gas production.
- Malaysia: Diverse energy mix with a focus on natural gas.
- Philippines: Reliance on imported oil and natural gas.
- Thailand: Significant hydroelectric power and growing renewable energy capacity.
2. Electricity Production
Electricity production varies widely among the ASEAN-6 countries, with some key observations:
- Renewable Sources: Countries like Thailand and the Philippines have made notable progress in harnessing renewable energy sources such as hydropower and solar.
- Country-by-Country Analysis: Detailed analysis of electricity production from renewables in each country highlights the potential for growth and improvement.
3. Heat Production
Heat production in the ASEAN-6 countries is primarily derived from fossil fuels, with significant opportunities for renewable heat production:
- Typologies of Heat Demand: Different types of heat demand and potential applications in ASEAN countries.
- Current Heating Demand: Estimation of current heating demand across the region.
- Renewable Heat Production: Analysis of current and potential renewable heat production methods.
4. Transport Sector
The transport sector in the ASEAN-6 countries is dominated by fossil fuels, but there are significant opportunities for biofuel production:
- Biofuel Production: Overview of biofuel production activities.
- First- and Second-Generation Biofuels: Detailed analysis of first- and second-generation biofuels, highlighting the potential for sustainable and efficient production.
Policy Support for Renewable Energy
The paper examines the various policy support mechanisms and driving forces behind renewable energy deployment:
- Driving Forces: Factors driving the adoption of renewable energy, including government policies, economic incentives, and technological advancements.
- Targets: Specific targets set by different countries, with detailed breakdowns for Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
Conclusion
The paper concludes by summarizing the key findings and emphasizing the importance of continued policy support and investment in renewable energy technologies to achieve sustainable energy goals in the ASEAN-6 countries.