Southeast Asia's energy landscape is a cause for concern, according to a recent report by environmental think tank Ember. The region's 10-member countries, including ASEAN nations, have met their rising electricity demand through fossil fuels, with carbon emissions increasing by 6.6%. Renewable energy generation has declined, and hydropower production has been affected by droughts and extreme events.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) also warns that Southeast Asia needs to invest heavily in clean energy to meet its climate goals. The region's electricity demand is expected to grow at an annual rate of 4%, making it crucial to transition to cleaner energy sources.