Policy
May 12, 2026SMARTGEN
IEA: Southeast Asia can harness solar and wind to meet fast-rising electricity demand
IEA says Southeast Asia electricity demand rose by over 7% in 2024 while the region still holds vast untapped solar and wind potential.
On 22 September 2025, the IEA released a news brief on renewable integration in Southeast Asia.
The content below is summarized from the cited source.
According to the IEA, regional electricity demand grew by more than 7% in 2024, almost double the global average. The IEA notes demand could keep rising sharply toward 2050, driven by urbanization, industrial growth, and rising living standards.
The brief states Southeast Asia has around 20 terawatts of untapped solar and wind potential, equivalent to roughly 55 times the region’s current total generation capacity. The IEA also says solar and wind are among the most cost-competitive options for new generation in the region.
The IEA highlights near-term integration measures including unlocking existing system flexibility, improving forecasting, updating grid codes, and modernizing grid operations.
Source: IEA News (22 Sep 2025)
IEASoutheast Asiasolar PVwind powerelectricity demand
