Features
Energy Crisis in the Philippines and Thailand Shows Risks of LNG and Petroleum Over-reliance
The energy crisis gripping the Philippines and Thailand is a direct consequence of over-reliance on imported fossil fuels. While leaders enabled billions of dollars of new LNG infrastructure, renewables like wind and solar remain neglected. Now, ordinary people are paying the price. But shifting to clean energy would boost both security and savings.
Thailand’s LNG Investment Plans Risk Undermining Its 51% Renewables Target For 2037
A decision to accelerate clean energy deployment rather than LNG imports should be seen not only as a way to bring Thailand closer to its net-zero and energy transition goals, but also as an enabler of economic growth, improved energy system resilience and more competitive electricity prices.
Renewable Energy
Solar Could Save ASEAN up to USD 67 Billion as LNG Prices Surge
Experts estimate that as fossil fuel prices soar, solar power could meet ASEAN’s new power needs at half the cost of gas, saving up to USD 67 billion. It would also significantly strengthen countries’ energy security, ensuring stable, domestically sourced energy.
Thailand’s Rooftop Solar Boom and the Energy Crisis
Rooftop solar systems offer Thailand a unique opportunity to achieve its renewable energy targets and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. By addressing key existing barriers, the country can unlock the full potential of rooftop solar, paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.
Fossil Fuel
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.
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.
Region
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.
The High Cost of Thailand’s LNG Import Plans
Thailand’s plans to expand its LNG import infrastructure by building a third terminal won't help the country achieve the goals laid in its NDC 3.0, nor will they bring electricity costs down or improve the resilience of the energy system. Scaling up solar power, on the other hand, will.