Powering ASEAN’s Green Future: IRENA Data Underscores the Urgency for Smart BESS

Renewable EnergyEnergy TransitionClean TechnologyEnergy StorageSustainable DevelopmentASEAN EnergyBattery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)Green InnovationGrid Modernization
Written By Jovy Gill

The global shift towards renewable energy is undeniable, highlighted by the International Renewable Energy Agency's (IRENA) recent Renewable Capacity Statistics 2025. This report reveals a record-breaking year with global renewable power capacity surging to an impressive 4.4TW – a significant 15.1% increase. Solar and wind energy are leading this charge, accounting for a remarkable 96.6% of all new renewable capacity added in 2024.

While Asia is at the forefront of this clean energy revolution, contributing the majority of new installations, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) presents a more complex picture. Although the overall trend is positive, the pace of renewable energy transition in ASEAN varies significantly, necessitating a closer examination to accelerate progress and enhance regional energy resilience.

ASEAN's Renewable Energy Landscape: A Region of Diverse Progress

IRENA's data provides valuable insights into the diverse rates of renewable energy adoption across ASEAN member states. While some nations are demonstrating commendable advancements, others are facing hurdles, underscoring the urgent need for targeted strategies and support.

Leading the Charge: Renewable Energy Success Stories in ASEAN

  • Vietnam: A Shining Example of Renewable Energy Growth: Vietnam has emerged as a clear leader in the ASEAN renewable energy sector. Recent data from early 2025 indicates that low-carbon sources accounted for an impressive 44% of Vietnam's electricity generation in 2024, surpassing the global average of 41% (Source: Ember).

    While hydropower remains significant (31%), wind and solar energy in Vietnam have surged to 13%, growing from near zero in 2018 to a substantial 21 GW of installed capacity by 2021 (Source: SIPET, Low-Carbon Power). Vietnam's ambitious targets aim for 47% renewable electricity by 2030 (Source: REN21), demonstrating a strong commitment to a greener energy mix.

  • Thailand: Steady Progress in Diversifying its Energy Sources: Thailand is also making significant strides in its renewable energy transition, focusing on diversification. In 2024, low-carbon sources constituted 12.5% of Thailand's electricity (Source: Ember), with a notable contribution from biofuels (over 5%), alongside hydropower, solar, and wind.

    The nation is actively pursuing a target of increasing the share of renewable energy in its total final energy consumption to 37% by 2037, backed by anticipated new investments (Source: Business Sweden). Thailand's EGAT (Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand) is also advancing significant floating solar farm projects (Source: WFW), and the country aims for at least 50% renewable electricity generation by 2050, ranking first in ASEAN according to the 2024 SDG Index.

The Philippines: Harnessing Untapped Renewable Energy Potential

The Philippines, an archipelago with abundant renewable energy resources, is also advancing its clean energy transition, though significant potential remains. In 2023, renewables accounted for approximately 22.6% of the country's power generation (Source: Department of Energy, Philippines), with geothermal energy being a key contributor. Hydropower also plays a significant role, and the share of solar and wind energy in the Philippines is growing due to supportive policies and decreasing costs.

The government aims for a 35% renewable energy share by 2030 and 50% by 2040 (Source: Philippine Energy Plan). Initiatives like renewable portfolio standards and green energy auctions are driving development. Recognizing the importance of battery energy storage systems (BESS) for grid stability, the Philippines is also exploring their implementation to maximize the use of variable renewables and enhance energy security across its islands. While infrastructure and grid interconnection challenges exist, the Philippines' increasing commitment signals a positive trend.

Accelerating ASEAN's Renewable Energy Transition: The Critical Role of BESS

Altilium Smart BESS

Altilium’s Smart BESS

IRENA's report highlights that the current global growth rate of renewable energy is insufficient to meet the goal of tripling capacity by 2030. For ASEAN, bridging this gap requires a renewed and intensified focus across several key areas, particularly as the global market increasingly deploys Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for crucial renewable energy infrastructure stabilization and upgrading existing power networks.

The Imperative for Stronger Renewable Energy Policy Frameworks in ASEAN

The two most critical areas for ASEAN countries to address to strengthen their renewable energy transition are:

  1. Establishing Clear, Long-Term Renewable Energy Policy Frameworks with a Strong Focus on Implementation: While many ASEAN nations have set renewable energy targets, the crucial next step is to establish robust and supportive regulations and ensure their effective implementation. This includes streamlining permitting processes, offering attractive long-term incentives like feed-in tariffs and tax breaks, and addressing regulatory inefficiencies that currently hinder project development and investment.

    Clear, consistent policies are essential to de-risk projects, build investor confidence, and drive the necessary large-scale deployment of renewables. The lack of strong regulatory frameworks is repeatedly highlighted as a barrier to progress.

  2. Investing Significantly in Grid Modernization and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS): Integrating variable renewable energy sources like solar and wind necessitates substantial upgrades to existing grid infrastructure to enhance flexibility and reliability. Investments directed at them are much needed.

    Deploying BESS is becoming increasingly critical to manage the intermittency of renewables, ensure a stable power supply, and maximize the utilization of clean energy. The declining costs of battery technology present an opportune moment for ASEAN countries to prioritize BESS deployment through supportive policies and financial mechanisms. Addressing infrastructure limitations and energy storage needs is fundamental to unlocking the full potential of renewable energy in the region and ensuring energy security.

Altilium Green Energy: Powering ASEAN's Sustainable Future with Smart, Sustainable BESS

At Altilium Green Energy, we're not just recognizing the immense potential for renewable energy in ASEAN; we're actively enabling it with next-generation Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). We understand that effective renewable integration and grid stability are paramount for the region's energy transition.

Our commitment goes beyond traditional solutions. Altilium's Smart BESS offers a lower total cost of ownership, optimizing performance and longevity for maximum value. This economic advantage is coupled with a commitment to sustainability: our batteries are built with non-toxic materials, ensuring a safer and more environmentally responsible energy future.

Furthermore, we are proud to be establishing assembly operations right here in the Philippines. This local presence not only supports regional economic development but also ensures tailored solutions and responsive service for our ASEAN partners.

In a market defined by decreasing battery costs, increasing renewable adoption, and a vital focus on grid resilience, Altilium's advanced, non-toxic, and locally assembled Smart BESS is uniquely positioned to empower ASEAN nations. 

Conclusion: A Pivotal Decade for ASEAN's Renewable Energy Journey

The next decade is pivotal for ASEAN. By addressing the challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities in the renewable energy sector, particularly the accelerating adoption of BESS, the region can bridge the existing gap and build a sustainable, climate-resilient energy future for generations to come. The time for decisive action is now.

Explore Further:

For a deeper dive into the global renewable energy landscape and detailed country-specific data, we encourage you to explore the full IRENA report and related resources:

#ClimateResilience #ClimateSecurity #RenewableEnergy #BESS #EnergyStorage #AltiliumGreenEnergy 

Sources

Vietnam:

Thailand:

Philippines:

Jovy Gill https://altiliumenergy.com
Previous

Beyond Acquisition: The Real Cost of Energy Security
Next

Breathing New Life Into Energy Storage: A Second-Life Retrofit Success and Its Potential for Asia Pacific