Enabling people-centred clean energy transitions in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia’s rapid economic expansion comes with increased energy consumption and the potential to exacerbate climate change. Even though 95% of the population living in Southeast Asia has access to electricity, a substantial portion of those living in rural and remote areas still lack access to reliable and affordable energy, and 30% of the population does not have access to clean cooking. Some countries, like Indonesia and Vietnam, have coal dependent regions that will face significant labour disruptions in the coming years. In response to these challenges, transitioning to clean energy with a people-centred approach will be key to respond to broader socio-economic goals and ensure all segments of society are included in the process and benefit from it. 

This roundtable session, co-organised by the IEA and the Tara Climate Foundation, will explore the critical role of people-centred approaches in accelerating clean energy transitions in Southeast Asia. It will specifically focus on strategies to increase affordability, and ultimately access, of clean energy services and technology for all, as well as measures to integrate the needs and perspectives of diverse communities into the policies that drive the shift toward clean energy sources.

The discussion will take place at the Southeast Asia Climate Philanthropy Forum, hosted by Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Indonesian Coordinating Ministry of Maritime and Investment Affairs, in Jakarta, Indonesia. The Forum will bring together leaders from government, industry and civil society to explore how to accelerate the implementation of inclusive climate solutions and the transition to a cleaner, healthier and more prosperous future across the region.

Register here to watch along.

Agenda

Welcome and Introduction

• Jamie Choi, CEO, Tara Climate Foundation
• Jane Cohen, Senior Programme Manager - People-Centred Clean Energy Transitions, IEA

Expert Panel Discussion

Moderator: Jane Cohen

• Atty. Sonny Matula, President, Federation of Free Workers, Philippines
• Edo Mahendra, Chairperson, Rumah PATEN, Indonesia Energy Transition Implementation Joint Office
• Joan Carling, Executive Director, Indigenous Peoples Rights International
• Tiza Mafira, Director, Climate Policy Initiative
• Zagy Berrian - Society of Renewable Energy