War Shocks Fuel Asia's Coal Comeback

Asian nations are increasingly turning to coal and nuclear power to ensure energy security amidst global conflicts, potentially compromising climate change mitigation efforts. The ongoing war's disruption of energy supplies has led countries like South Korea and Japan to increase coal consumption and delay nuclear plant retirements. Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines, are also experiencing a resurgence in coal use as a crisis buffer.

Despite a global agreement in 2021 to phase out coal power, investments in coal are projected to reach $180 billion by 2026. This trend is reinforced by recent energy shocks, such as the disruption of gas supplies following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which led European nations to burn more coal. The article highlights that while renewables still lead in regional power generation growth, the immediate need for energy security is influencing long-term policy decisions.

Nations like Indonesia and Vietnam are balancing coal reliance with ambitious solar energy goals. Indonesia, a major coal exporter, is also planning significant rooftop solar installations. Similarly, Vietnam is committed to increasing rooftop solar capacity. The Philippines, after increasing coal burning and declaring an energy emergency, has seen record rates of rooftop solar adoption, illustrating the complex and non-linear nature of the energy transition.

Efforts to reduce emissions and achieve net-zero ambitions face challenges from these energy security concerns. These long-term campaigns require sustained focus, but are easily disrupted by geopolitical events and energy shocks. The situation underscores a significant tension between immediate energy needs and long-term climate objectives in the region.