Southeast Asia needs stronger electricity systems and more varied energy supplies as demand grows, according to a new International Energy Agency review released on October 5. The ASEAN Energy Security Review examines oil, gas, coal, electricity and critical minerals across the region.
The IEA expects electricity demand to grow by about 5.4% a year between 2026 and 2030, with cooling, industry and data centres contributing to the increase. Meeting that demand requires attention to the grid as well as the sources of power connected to it.
The agency recommends diversification, energy efficiency and electrification, supported by stronger national emergency plans and regional cooperation. It also points to stockholding, emergency exercises and more flexible electricity generation as tools for coping with disruptions.
The review is due to be presented to ASEAN energy ministers in Manila on October 7. Its message is that energy security depends on several measures working together: reliable supply routes, resilient infrastructure and the ability to adjust when conditions change. The demand figures are forecasts, rather than a guarantee of how quickly consumption will rise.
