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This paper reviews progress towards the establishment of an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Power Grid (APG) and the key barriers to multilateral cross‐border electricity trade in ASEAN. An analysis across political, technical, institutional, economic, environmental, social and time dimensions is employed. Using a policy sequencing framework, the paper concludes it remains premature for ASEAN to pursue a strong form of power sector market integration on account of the sizeable barriers that currently remain, especially economic and institutional barriers. Focusing on bilateral power purchase agreements and large‐scale investments in solar and wind power over 2022–2030 would help to develop stronger foundations for ASEAN to make steps towards deeper regional integration in the electricity sector in subsequent years, while also being consistent with renewables adoption goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzes the factors that have facilitated Vietnam's recent rapid solar and wind power expansion and draws policy insights for other member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). A policy-mix analysis focusing on targets, incentive instruments, enabling regulations, and policy implementation is carried out, informed by semi-structured interviews with 20 Vietnamese experts during the period January–March 2021. A comparative analysis between Vietnam and the other ASEAN countries provides policy insights. Generous feed-in tariffs are found to have been a key driver, with income tax and land lease payment exemptions also being important. The main barriers include a high level of policy uncertainty and an underprepared transmission grid. Vietnam's case indicates that a strong price signal and a supportive investment environment can pave the way for rapid solar and wind power uptake. Another key lesson is that early preparation of transmission systems for solar and wind electricity is needed to maximize the potential for expanding the use of these technologies. • Vietnam has led the uptake of solar and wind power capacity in ASEAN sinces 2019. • Government commitment and public support are found to be key drivers. • Feed-in tariffs can strongly incentivize industry take-off. • Policy certainty and preparation of transmission systems are important. • Now is the time for ASEAN to better prepare for renewable energy uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid increases in electricity consumption in Southeast Asia caused by rising living standards and population raise concerns about energy security, affordability and environmental sustainability. In this study, the role of short-term off-river energy storage (STORES) in supporting 100% renewable electricity in Southeast Asia is investigated. Large-scale integration of off-river, closed-loop pumped hydro storage is a new approach to providing system flexibility facilitating high penetration of variable renewable energy in electricity systems. The features of STORES include large storage potential, high technology maturity and a long service life. Energy generation, storage and transmission are co-optimised based on long-term, high-resolution chronological energy data. A comparative analysis is undertaken between the scenarios with and without an intercontinental Asia-Pacific Super Grid. The results show that, with support provided by STORES, the Southeast Asian electricity industry can achieve very high penetration (78%–97%) of domestic solar and wind energy resources. The levelised costs of electricity range from 55 to 115 U.S. dollars per megawatt-hour based on 2020 technology costs. In the Super Grid scenarios, the costs change by −4% to +7% while the storage requirements reduce by 50%–89%. Renewable energy supported by STORES can be a cost-effective solution for Southeast Asia's energy transition, delivering long-term, substantial environmental benefits. • Hour-by-hour analysis of energy balance in 100% renewable electricity scenarios. • Off-river pumped hydro to support large-scale integration of solar and wind energy. • Comparative analysis between the cases with and without an Asia-Pacific Super Grid. • The all-in costs range from 55 to 115 U.S. dollars per megawatt-hour of electricity. • A fully integrated electricity system can reduce storage requirements by 50%–89%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]