ADB is working to increase access to reliable, affordable, low-carbon energy across Asia and the Pacific to reduce poverty and promote development.
Around 150 million people in Asia and the Pacific lack access to electricity.
An increasing trend of issuance indicates growing investors’ interest in climate finance and sustainable finance
Achieving Paris Agreement goals require dramatic reductions in global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The ASEAN Power Grid is a major initiative designed to connect the electricity networks of the 10 members countries of ASEAN, enabling cross-border power trading. ASEAN’s vision is to achieve fully integrated grid operations by 2045.
ADB is working to improve access to reliable, affordable, low-carbon energy across Asia and the Pacific. Through its various financing instruments, ADB develops projects in renewable energy generation, electricity transmission and distribution, and energy utilities. Policy and governance reform has been central to ADB’s approach in the sector to enable markets, encourage private sector participation, and promote clean energy.
Given the enormous needs, ADB works with its developing member countries, development partners, and the private sector in creating a competitive market environment to ensure access to clean, affordable energy. ADB’s 2021 Energy Policy focuses the bank’s resources where they can make the biggest difference in terms of addressing energy access and security, climate change, and environmental sustainability.
Results delivered in 2024 from ADB projects.
Renewable energy capacity installed
Total annual greenhouse gas
emissions reduction
*tCO2e = tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent
Proportion of population with
access to electricity
From 2008 to 2021, ADB invested approximately 12ドル billion in energy access projects providing energy to more than 45 million households in the region. However, there is much more to do. About 150 million people in Asia and the Pacific still have no access to electricity.
Under ADB’s Energy Policy 2021, ADB will not support coal mining, processing, storage, and transportation, nor any new coal-fired power generation. ADB will also not support any natural gas exploration or drilling. The bank will be selective in its support for midstream and downstream natural gas initiatives.
Energy is a key input in social and economic activities in a country. Access to reliable energy supplies provides, among others, increased opportunities for income generation, along with better health care and education and thus improved living standards.
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About ADB
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet.
Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—50 from the region.
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