Features
The Challenges Facing Thailand’s Plans to Become ASEAN’s LNG Hub
While LNG import-dependent ASEAN nations are once again among the most affected by yet another fossil fuel crisis, the second in just five years, Thailand remains steady in its plans to become a regional LNG hub — a move with potentially costly energy security, economic and climate consequences.
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.
Renewable 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.
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.
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
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.
War in Middle East Threatens Bangladesh’s Energy Security
Bangladesh faces a mounting energy crisis as Middle East tensions disrupt LNG supply, pushing costs and subsidy burdens higher. With LNG accounting for a third of total gas and renewable options still underutilised, the country risks slower exports and economic strain unless it accelerates diversification into affordable, domestic renewables such as solar. A rapid scale-up of solar-plus-storage could unlock 50,000 MW of capacity using just 1% of agricultural land and shield Bangladesh from volatile global fuel markets.