Southeast Asia’s pathway unclear
Rising demand and a legacy of coal-fired developments could hinder the energy transition in the region
The energy transition faces challenges in Southeast Asia, according to the IEA, as regional demand is forecast to continue rising while ample new coal-fired generation capacity is still under development. “There is no question that urgent and significant action is required [to meet emission reduction pledges],” IEA deputy executive director Mary Burce Warlick told Singapore International Energy Week in October. The IEA launched its 2021 World Energy Outlook at the event, stating the “direction of travel is a long way from alignment” with the “achievable” 1.5°C stabilisation in global temperatures envisioned by its Net Zero Emissions (NZE) by 2050 scenario. Integral to the problem in Southeas
Also in this section
12 December 2025
The latest edition of our annual Outlook publication, titled 'The shape of energy to come: Creating unique pathways and managing shifting alliances', is available now
12 December 2025
The federal government is working with Alberta to improve the country’s access to Asian markets and reduce dependence on the US, but there are challenges to their plans
11 December 2025
The removal of the ban on oil and gas exploration and an overhaul of the system sends all the right messages for energy security, affordability and sustainability
10 December 2025
The economic and environmental cost of the seven-year exploration ban will be felt long after its removal






