SIEW Energy Insights: ASEAN's Path to Regional Energy Connectivity

As Southeast Asia advances toward a more sustainable and resilient energy future, regional power interconnectivity has emerged as a critical enabler of decarbonisation and energy security. At SIEW Energy Insights, experts discuss the pathways and key considerations to optimising renewable energy flows, strengthening system reliability, and connecting generation sources with demand centres across the region.

Ron Benioff, Laboratory Program Manager for International Programs, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) shared the findings of the Singapore-U.S. Feasibility Study on Regional Energy Connectivity. He highlighted that the Phase One analysis found that subsea interconnections across ASEAN are technically and economically viable along multiple routes. Phase Two will focus on the analysis of enabling legal, regulatory and governance frameworks and measures.

A panel discussion moderated by Anthony Molle, Global Head, Industries Department, Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency, showcased insights into deepening energy integration in ASEAN.

Lee Seng Wai, Chief Operating Officer of Singapore Energy Interconnections (SGEI), highlighted that Southeast Asia is making tangible progress toward an interconnected ASEAN Power Grid. He noted that long-term licensing certainty and clear commercial frameworks can significantly reduce financing costs—especially when interconnectors are anchored by active cross-border energy trade.

Lisa Sachs, Columbia Centre for Sustainable Investment, discussed the significance of having a financing framework benefitting both early-stage projects and long-term energy structure. She emphasised the importance of establishing depth and breadth of collaboration between countries and stakeholders, citing best practices that include feasibility studies to establish technical and economic fundamentals.

Facilitating regional coordination and project financing

In the Closing Address, Vikram Kumar, Director and Regional Head of Industry, Infrastructure & Natural Resources, Asia Pacific, International Finance Corporation, shared that building integrated power systems require both collective commitment and multilateral coordination.

Stay tuned as the conversation evolves throughout the day. Follow @SIEW_sg on Telegram and X (formerly Twitter) for the latest insights.