Features
Solar Power Shields Pakistan From the Hormuz Energy Crisis
The Iran war is yet another reminder that dependence on fossil fuels leaves countries exposed to global shocks, even if they aren’t directly involved. However, through the lens of Pakistan’s solar energy boom, a research by CREA and Renewables First demonstrates how countries can soften the blow on their economies and energy security.
Renewable Energy
Is Natural Gas a Fossil Fuel and Can it Be Renewable?
Despite its "clean" reputation, natural gas is unequivocally a fossil fuel, formed from ancient organic matter over millions of years. While it burns more cleanly than coal at the point of combustion, its primary component — methane — is a potent greenhouse gas driving climate change. As production surges to record highs, the debate intensifies over whether it is a viable "bridge fuel" or a significant obstacle to a renewable future.
Bridging the Gender Gap: The Benefits of Including More Women in Asia’s Energy Sector
Empowering women to participate fully and thrive economically and professionally, especially in the energy sector, is central to a just energy transition. While, globally, there has been progress, albeit slow, Asia stands out as one of the regions where gender inequality in the transition remains most severe.
Fossil Fuel
US EPA Repeals the Endangerment Finding: Big Blow to the Fight Against Climate Change
Revoking the endangerment finding would pose far-reaching and long-lasting environmental, climate and health consequences, with not only local but also global importance. Worryingly, scientists believe this won’t be the last of the US administration’s moves to support the fossil fuel industry and attack climate action.
LNG Prices in 2026: From Seller’s Market to Buyer’s Advantage
Global LNG supply is set to surge in 2026, with roughly 93–150 million tonnes per annum of new capacity coming online, pushing prices downward and shifting the market from seller-led to buyer-led. Despite a welcomed demand uptick in Asia, Europe’s imports are expected to stabilise, while China’s rebound remains pivotal to absorbing the wave.
Region
Expanding Japan’s Energy Storage Market
Japan’s grid is expanding solar and onshore wind, but variability is stressing real-time balance. A new REI Japan report argues that accelerating grid-scale batteries and large-capacity EV batteries could unlock clean, reliable growth—reducing the need for new fossil plants and cutting energy dependence on imports. The window is open for utilities and investors to catalyse a first-mover shift in Japan’s energy transition.
Thailand’s Energy Sector in 2026
Thailand has come a long way from the discovery and domestic production of oil and natural gas. Today, LNG imports dominate its energy mix, with the country boasting the largest LNG import capacity in the region and planning to expand it further. However, experts warn this poses risks to Thailand's economy, environment, and net-zero goals.