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June 22, 2026
Bonn talks: Why COP31’s electrification target matters for ASEAN energy markets
COP31's 35x35 target aims to raise electricity's share of final energy to 35% by 2035. ASEAN electricity demand grew 60% in a decade and needs USD 20B+ annually in grid investment to keep pace.
June 22, 2026How Australia can deliver the secure gas, renewable fuels and battery minerals Asia-Pacific needs
Australia can leverage its vast renewable and fossil fuel resources to form a new energy security alliance, helping fuel-dependent Asia-Pacific nations stabilize their markets amid rising global energy demands and disruptions, an expert says.
June 22, 2026ASEAN Weekly: Region’s energy import costs hit $160 billion; Vietnam expands LNG, renewables projects
This week in ASEAN, energy security emerged as a key challenge for the region. The IEA warned that Southeast Asia’s $160 billion fossil fuel import bill may become the new normal, underscoring the need for stronger grids and diversified energy supplies.
June 19, 2026Southeast Asia is building AI data centers faster than it can recycle or reuse their hardware
AI GPUs are retired after just 10–18 months as operators chase newer chips. Microsoft's Circular Centers hit 90.9% reuse rate, but Southeast Asia's ITAD infrastructure remains underdeveloped.
June 18, 2026Taiwan moves to curb greenwashing, launches new circular label for recycled products
Taiwan's anti-greenwashing guideline targets misused terms like "net zero" and undisclosed award criteria. A new circular label, separate from the eco-label, now covers 12 products under the gMIT brand.
June 18, 2026Thailand built a low-carbon cement market but data center demand has yet to follow
Thailand's cement industry spent years achieving 80%+ low-carbon market share, but data centers still don't specify EPDs or carbon limits. Microsoft's Sublime Systems model shows what could change that.
June 17, 2026Southeast Asia’s $160 billion fossil fuel import bill may become the new normal, IEA warns
IEA's Southeast Asia Energy Outlook 2026 says the USD 160B fossil import bill will become standard, not exceptional. Renewables overtake coal for growth by 2035, but the ASEAN Power Grid needs new financing.
June 17, 2026Why low-carbon steel is becoming a data center procurement issue
A hyperscale data center uses up to 20,000 tonnes of steel. Meranti Green Steel targets 600–700 kg CO₂/tonne by 2030 vs 2,300 kg for blast furnace steel, but EPD verification remains the key bottleneck.
June 17, 2026In Thailand, EUDR pressure on small-scale rubber farmers prompts private-sector assistance
Small-scale farmers who underpin Thailand’s lucrative natural rubber industry are under pressure to prepare for the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), due to take effect at the end of the year.
June 16, 2026Thailand looks to turn nature into an economic asset as green finance agenda expands
Thailand's natural capital share of wealth fell from 21% to 11% since 2005. The World Bank says Thailand needs USD 219B in climate investment, with biodiversity credits as a new growth lever.