ASEAN energy demand to increase 2.6 times by 2050 – report

The energy demand across Southeast Asia is expected to grow 2.6 times from 2022 to 2050. 

This is according to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Centre for Energy’s (ACE) ASEAN Energy Outlook (AEO8), an assessment of each program area in the energy landscape across ASEAN, detailing strategies to accomplish national and regional energy goals, extending even further up to 2050. 

“According to AEO8, energy demand in 2050 is 2.6 times higher than 2022. This rapid growth underscores the urgency for coordinated efforts among ASEAN Member States to transition towards cleaner energy sources while maintaining economic growth and addressing the region’s rising energy needs,” said ACE acting executive director Beni Suryadi.

AEO8, developed through a collaboration between ACE, ASEAN Member States, and strategic partners, will play an important role in driving the objectives outlined in the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC).

Building on the foundation established by the 7th ASEAN Energy Outlook (AEO7), released in 2022, AEO8 presents an in-depth exploration of the region’s energy landscape. It evaluates key sectors, from electricity generation to energy efficiency, with projections extending to 2050.

AEO8 outlined four strategic scenarios to deepen the understanding of ASEAN’s energy landscape. 

The Baseline Scenario (BAS) serves as a benchmark, assuming no new initiatives in energy efficiency or renewable energy policies. 

In contrast, the AMS Target Scenario (ATS) assesses the implications of maintaining existing national targets and policies, providing insight into potential future outcomes.

Meanwhile, the Regional Aspiration Scenario (RAS) adopts a cost-optimization approach for the power sector, aiming to meet the 2025 APAEC targets and other regional benchmarks, while also factoring in constraints beyond that year. 

Lastly, the Carbon Neutrality Scenario (CNS) focuses on achieving decarbonization through the strategic use of low-emission technologies, all while striving to meet the 2025 APAEC goals.