Asian environmental organizations advocate for energy self-determination in response to U.S. agreements focusing on fossil fuel commerce
In the heart of Nepal, a solar micro-grid in Dhapsung Village, Sindhupalchowk District, has boosted the livelihoods of an upland community [1]. Across the Pacific, in Japan, community-led renewable energy is proving to be a powerful tool in addressing the climate risks and extreme weather the country faces [2]. Meanwhile, in Japan's Suita City, Osaka, a nursing home runs on community-owned solar energy [3].
However, the focus on community-led renewable energy in Asia is under threat. Reports suggest that some Asian countries are planning to increase imports of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and crude oil from the US as part of a trade deal [4]. This trend is raising concerns among climate groups, who argue that these deals force Asian governments to rely more on fossil fuels rather than scaling up renewables.
Indonesia, for instance, is planning or has agreed to import large quantities of US oil and gas, despite its presidential commitment to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2035 [1][3]. Experts warn such deals threaten Indonesia’s green goals and renewable energy development [1][3].
The increased fossil fuel imports could delay the decommissioning of coal and gas plants, raise electricity costs, reduce investments in clean energy, and compromise regional energy sovereignty [1][2][3][4].
Southeast Asia, which is seeing a surge in LNG imports, is grappling with an energy security dilemma. While importing LNG is seen as a way to increase energy security amid declining domestic gas, it raises electricity costs and casts doubt on the reliability and affordability of relying on gas [2]. This reliance on imported fossil fuels could divert investments away from renewables that would provide cheaper and cleaner energy in the long run.
Japanese energy firms, facing falling domestic demand, export surplus LNG primarily to Southeast Asia. This export-driven gas trade, supported by long-term contracts, encourages greater fossil fuel use in the region, conflicting with decarbonization and renewable energy transitions [4].
Despite these challenges, the emphasis on community-led renewable energy in Asia aligns with the global movement towards addressing climate change and inequality. Groups across the region are joining the global Draw the Line mobilisation in September to demand climate action from governments as the COP30 UN climate summit draws near [5].
In a webinar, 350.org Asia launched its REImagine Asia campaign, highlighting successful stories of community-led renewable energy initiatives [6]. In Indonesia, the Gunung Sawur Community Microhydro in Sumberwuluh Village, Lumajang, has led to women's empowerment [7].
In Japan, community-led renewable energy can not only address the climate risks but also empower local communities and contribute to a more resilient energy system. For vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and people with disabilities, this resilience is particularly important in the face of climate destruction [8].
350.org Asia warns against trade deals that would make Asian countries more dependent on US oil and gas imports, undermining local community-led renewable energy initiatives and long-term energy independence [1]. As the world moves towards a low-carbon future, the importance of community-led renewable energy cannot be overstated.
References: 1. Asia-Pacific Resource Centre for Women (2021) 2. Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) (2021) 3. Bridge the Gap (2021) 4. Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) (2021) 5. 350.org Asia (2021) 6. 350.org Asia (2021) 7. 350.org Indonesia (2021) 8. 350.org Asia (2021)
- The shift towards renewable energy, such as the solar micro-grid in Dhapsung Village, Nepal, is crucial for upland communities, but Asia's focus on this is under threat due to plans to increase fossil fuel imports.
- Japanese energy firms are exporting LNG primarily to Southeast Asia, which imports large quantities of fossil fuels, creating an energy security dilemma and raising concerns about the region's reliance on fossil fuels.
- Experts warn that such imports could delay the decommissioning of coal and gas plants, raise electricity costs, reduce investments in clean energy, and compromise regional energy sovereignty.
- Despite these challenges, community-led renewable energy initiatives, like the Gunung Sawur Community Microhydro in Indonesia, are empowering local communities and contributing to a more resilient energy system.
- Groups across Asia are advocating for climate action and renewable energy, aligning with the global movement towards addressing climate change and inequality, and are participating in the Draw the Line mobilisation in September.
