Synopsis

Southeast Asia's electricity demand is set to double by 2050, making energy security and sustainability critical priorities. While renewable energy deployment is growing, reliance on imported fossil fuels exposes the region to price volatility and rising emissions. With over 20 terawatts of technical potential for utility-scale solar and wind-55 times current capacity-the region has vast untapped renewable resources. Solar and wind are now among the cheapest power sources, offering a key pathway to meet demand while enhancing energy security and climate goals. However, integrating higher shares of variable renewable energy (VRE) poses technical and regulatory challenges. The IEA's Integrating Solar and Wind in Southeast Asia report assesses the region's readiness for VRE, applying its six-phase integration framework to country-specific contexts. It identifies practical actions for policymakers and energy stakeholders through 2030 and beyond to support successful VRE integration.