How Trump might shake up Southeast Asia's clean energy transition – Nikkei Asia

As the Trump administration takes office, there is uncertainty about how it may impact the clean energy transition in Southeast Asia. President Trump has previously expressed skepticism about climate change and has promised to revitalize the coal industry in the United States.

This could potentially have a ripple effect on Southeast Asia, where many countries are transitioning to cleaner forms of energy to combat climate change and reduce pollution. The region is home to some of the fastest-growing economies in the world, and the demand for energy is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.

One of the key ways Trump’s policies could impact Southeast Asia is through his stance on the Paris Agreement. The agreement, which aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, was signed by nearly 200 countries, including the United States. However, Trump has threatened to withdraw from the agreement, which could undermine global efforts to combat climate change.

Additionally, Trump’s support for the coal industry could potentially lead to an increase in coal exports to Southeast Asia. This would not only contribute to increased carbon emissions in the region but also hinder the growth of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power.

Despite these potential challenges, many countries in Southeast Asia remain committed to their clean energy goals. Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia have set ambitious targets for renewable energy deployment and are actively investing in clean energy projects.

It is clear that Trump’s policies could have a significant impact on the clean energy transition in Southeast Asia. However, the region’s commitment to combating climate change and reducing pollution may prove to be resilient in the face of these challenges.