In 2024, China continues to dominate Asia's renewable energy landscape, boasting an impressive renewable energy capacity of 1.45 million megawatts (MW). This staggering figure reflects the country’s long-standing commitment to clean energy and reducing its carbon footprint. With vast investments in wind, solar, and hydropower, China has cemented itself as the global leader in renewable energy generation.
The scale of China’s renewable energy projects is unmatched, driven by both government policy and international environmental obligations. While the country still relies on coal for a significant portion of its energy needs, its efforts to expand renewable energy capacity showcase a clear shift towards sustainability, a trend likely to influence other nations across Asia and the world.
India and Japan Follow Suit with Significant Growth
Trailing behind China, India ranks second in Asia with a renewable energy capacity of 175,953 MW in 2024. The Indian government’s aggressive push towards solar and wind energy has been a critical driver of this growth. Initiatives like the National Solar Mission, aimed at rapidly increasing India’s solar capacity, have played a significant role in the country's renewable energy transition. Moreover, India's reliance on clean energy is not just environmental but also economic, as the country seeks to reduce its dependence on expensive energy imports.
Japan, with a capacity of 128,782 MW, stands third on the list. While the country faces geographical and infrastructural challenges in scaling up renewable energy, its advances in solar energy technology and commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions are noteworthy. The nation’s renewable energy sector is poised for growth, especially as it continues to rebuild energy strategies post-Fukushima, prioritizing cleaner and safer energy options.
Viet Nam Emerges as a Renewable Energy Leader in Southeast Asia
A standout in Southeast Asia, Viet Nam has emerged as a key player in the renewable energy sector, ranking fourth in Asia with a renewable capacity of 46,010 MW. This marks a significant achievement for the country, driven largely by investments in solar and wind energy. Vietnam’s renewable energy sector has grown rapidly over the past few years, thanks to government incentives, favorable policies, and a burgeoning private sector committed to clean energy.
The surge in Viet Nam’s renewable energy capacity is a response to rising domestic energy demands and a growing recognition of the environmental and economic benefits of sustainable energy sources. With its favorable geographic conditions for solar and wind power generation, the country is poised to continue its upward trajectory, solidifying its position as a renewable energy hub in the region.
South Korea, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia’s Rising Energy Hubs
South Korea and Taiwan also make the list with renewable energy capacities of 17,600 MW and 14,156 MW, respectively. South Korea’s renewable energy expansion is part of its broader efforts to transition to a greener economy, as it shifts away from nuclear power and fossil fuels. Taiwan, similarly, has been focusing on solar and offshore wind energy to meet its ambitious clean energy goals.
In Southeast Asia, countries like Indonesia (13,332 MW), Thailand (12,547 MW), and Laos (9,939 MW) are steadily building their renewable energy infrastructure. Indonesia, the region’s largest economy, has significant potential for geothermal energy, while Thailand and Laos are tapping into solar and hydropower resources. Though these countries are still in the early stages of large-scale renewable energy deployment compared to China and India, their progress reflects a growing regional commitment to sustainability.
Looking Ahead: Asia’s Role in the Global Renewable Energy Transition
The figures for 2024 reveal Asia’s critical role in the global renewable energy transition. While China, India, and Japan lead the way with massive capacities, countries like Vietnam, South Korea, and Indonesia are rapidly catching up. As renewable energy becomes increasingly vital to both economic growth and environmental sustainability, Asia’s continued investment in clean energy technologies will be pivotal in shaping a greener future for the world.
With major economies making strides in renewable energy, the region is set to play a key role in global efforts to combat climate change. As infrastructure and technology improve, and as political and economic conditions continue to favor green energy, the future of renewable energy in Asia looks promising.
