The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is on the cusp of a clean energy revolution, and regulatory reforms could be the spark that ignites it. A new report by the Global Renewables Alliance (GRA) outlines a bold vision for APAC businesses to access round-the-clock clean power, slashing emissions and fueling sustainable growth. This isn’t just about green credentials; it’s about ensuring the region’s economic engine runs on clean, reliable, and cost-effective energy.
The GRA report zeroes in on five key markets: South Korea, India, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. These nations are set to account for nearly 60% of global electricity demand growth over the next two decades. The stakes are high, and the opportunity is immense. Bruce Douglas, CEO of the Global Renewables Alliance, doesn’t mince words: “The APAC region is the engine of global growth, but its success, security and sustainability depends on access to clean, reliable, and cost-effective energy.”
So, how do we get there? The report lays out three strategic pillars to accelerate the shift to 24/7 clean electricity.
First up, policy and market reform. This isn’t about tinkering around the edges. We’re talking about introducing time-stamped Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), streamlining permitting processes, and enabling corporate clean energy matching in real-time. It’s about creating a market that rewards clean energy and makes it accessible to businesses that want to go green.
Next, grid modernisation and storage. As more variable renewables come online, we need infrastructure that can balance supply and demand. That means scaling long-duration energy storage and upgrading grids. It’s a significant challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to build a smarter, more resilient energy system.
Lastly, corporate leadership. Businesses have a crucial role to play in driving demand for carbon-free power. Through innovative Power Purchase Agreements and data-driven procurement strategies, corporations can send a clear signal to the market: clean energy is not just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have.
But here’s where things get interesting. The report suggests that with the right policy mix, APAC nations can meet growing corporate demand while delivering on decarbonisation targets. That’s a big claim, and it’s one that could reshape the energy sector. If APAC can pull this off, it could set a global standard for clean energy transition. Other regions would be forced to take notice, and the race to zero emissions would accelerate.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. There are significant hurdles to overcome. Policy reform is always a contentious issue, and grid modernisation requires substantial investment. Moreover, corporate leadership is not guaranteed. Businesses need to see a clear business case for clean energy, and that’s not always easy to make.
Yet, the potential rewards are enormous. A transition to 24/7 clean electricity in APAC could cut emissions dramatically, drive sustainable growth, and secure the region’s energy future. It’s a bold vision, but it’s one that’s within reach. The question is, will APAC seize the opportunity? The energy sector is watching, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.