Features
Over One-third of AZEC Agreements Support Fossil Fuels, Risking High Emissions and Future Costs for Southeast Asia
Launched by Japan in March 2023, AZEC is a diplomatic initiative with eleven Southeast Asian countries and Australia to advance cooperation in Asia towards carbon neutrality and a platform for joint investment to develop zero-emission technologies across the region. However, according to Zero Carbon Analytics’ analysis, over one-third of those MoUs will promote fossil fuels or technologies that will prolong fossil fuels.
Laos’ Net-zero 2050: Renewable Power Generation Challenges and Opportunities
ASEAN member Laos has plans to increase renewable energy in its power mix, notably solar power buildout. However, it continues to rely on hydropower and coal-fired power plants to generate electricity, complicating both its way forward and decarbonisation plans.
Renewable Energy
Green Steel: Powering The Low-carbon Economy
Green steel is produced without fossil fuels and has significantly lower emissions than traditional steel. The IEA sees green steel development as a critical step in global decarbonisation and for companies that rely on steel throughout their supply chains.
Fossil Fuel
Steel Decarbonisation: A Pathway To Development
Decarbonising the steel industry is necessary for global climate goals and hinges on scaling up low-emissions production technologies, like renewable energy-powered EAFs and green hydrogen. An improved policy framework and industry support are critical for this shift.
ASEAN Countries Do Not Yet Have a “Young” Coal Power Plant Problem [Op-Ed]
The recommended pathway to limit the global temperature increase to below 1.5°C is for developed countries to phase out coal power generation by 2030, while developing countries should do so by 2040. Hozefa Merchant shares his view on the challenges of transitioning from coal to clean energy should the region add new coal capacity.
Region
Energy Efficiency in the Philippines: The NEECP
The Philippines is one of the most at-risk countries for climate impacts. Improving energy efficiency across all sectors is a central part of its climate mitigation strategy. The recent NEECP roadmap will guide the country's energy efficiency improvements over the next three decades.
Geothermal Energy in the Philippines: A Sustainablity Powerhouse
Geothermal energy is a sustainable and reliable source of power for the Philippines. The country has significant geothermal resources and is located along the Ring of Fire. As a result, the country has the world's third-largest geothermal capacity.