Asia’s Energy Challenge: Key Issues and Policy Options

Abstract

This book examines key issues and policy options in the development of Asia’s energy security.

Rapid growth has transformed Asia’s presence in the world economy: Past growth has dramatically improved Asia’s living standards, lifting millions out of poverty. Future growth will do the same. But, crucially, can Asia secure the energy it needs to fuel this dramatic economic expansion? This book stresses that the threefold challenge of energy supply security, environmental sustainability, and affordable access requires a multipronged approach. The book also explains that the region must actively contain its rising demand, aggressively explore new energy supply sources and technology, and progressively promote the regional integration of energy markets and infrastructure.

The book highlights that, unless there is a paradigm shift in the current energy use, Asia will struggle to deliver the inclusive growth needed to lift millions of its citizens out of poverty. The book also considers the range of policy reforms and technological developments that can ensure a future of ample, affordable, clean energy for Asia.