Southeast Asia is one of the world’s fastest-growing regions, and one of the most energy-dependent. As demand for electricity rises, most countries still rely heavily on coal, gas, and oil to power their economies.

This dependence exposes the region to volatile fuel prices and supply disruptions, even as cleaner technologies become more affordable and widely available, according to a recently released report.

Improving access to finance, investing in renewable power, and expanding regional cooperation can help countries meet growing energy needs while reducing their vulnerability to global shocks. The three charts below illustrate the scale of the challenge and the opportunity that lies ahead.

Most countries in the region import far more coal, oil, and gas than they export. Singapore is the most dependent, with imports several times greater than domestic supply, while Indonesia and Brunei are the only clear exporters. The pattern underscores how energy demand is outpacing local production.

Heavy dependence on imported fuels makes national economies more vulnerable to price spikes and supply disruptions, strengthening the case for regional cooperation and investment in local renewable resources.

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The cost of financing large solar power projects is higher in Southeast Asia than in most developed economies. In countries such as Myanmar, Viet Nam, Indonesia, and the Philippines, investors face financing costs roughly double those in Europe or North America.

High financing costs make clean energy projects harder to launch even when technology is available. Lowering these costs through clear policies, stronger institutions, and transparent markets could accelerate the region’s move toward affordable and sustainable energy.

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Southeast Asia’s energy systems remain tied to fossil fuels, but the path to change is open. Shifting toward renewable power will require lower financing costs, stronger policy coordination, and regional cooperation that links national grids and markets.

Success will depend on decisive action. Governments, investors, and development partners can work together to make energy cleaner, more reliable, and more affordable, turning today’s energy dependency into a foundation for sustainable growth across the region.