Southeast Asia embraces offshore wind power, as Trump bashes renewable energy - The Albertan
Published December 13, 2025
Southeast Asia's Growing Commitment to Offshore Wind Power
As the global energy landscape shifts towards sustainability, Southeast Asia is making significant strides in embracing offshore wind power. This transition comes amid contrasting views on renewable energy, particularly highlighted by recent comments from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who criticized the sector. Nevertheless, Southeast Asian nations are moving forward, recognizing the potential of offshore wind energy to meet their growing electricity demands and contribute to climate change mitigation.
Offshore Wind Power Potential in Southeast Asia
The region is endowed with vast resources suitable for offshore wind energy generation. According to a report from the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), Southeast Asia has the potential to generate over 200 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind energy. Countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia are at the forefront of this development, with governments actively investing in infrastructure and regulatory frameworks to support the growth of this sector.
Vietnam, in particular, has emerged as a leader in offshore wind development. The country aims to install 7 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030, with plans to increase this target to 18 GW by 2045. The government has set a clear roadmap, which includes the establishment of a feed-in tariff to incentivize investment in offshore wind projects.
Investment and Development Initiatives
Investment in offshore wind projects in Southeast Asia is gaining momentum. Recent reports indicate that the region has attracted significant foreign investments aimed at developing offshore wind farms. For example, in Vietnam, the Danish company Ørsted has partnered with local developers to explore the feasibility of a 1,500 MW offshore wind project in Binh Thuan province. This project is expected to contribute significantly to the country’s renewable energy targets.
Indonesia is also making headway in offshore wind development. The Indonesian government has set a target of achieving 23% of its energy mix from renewable sources by 2025. The country has identified several potential sites for offshore wind farms, particularly in regions with strong wind resources, such as the Java Sea and the southern coast of Sumatra.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the promising outlook for offshore wind power in Southeast Asia, several challenges remain. One of the primary obstacles is the lack of a comprehensive regulatory framework that can support the development of offshore wind projects. Many countries in the region are still in the early stages of formulating policies and regulations that would facilitate investment in this sector.
Additionally, the high initial capital costs associated with offshore wind projects can deter potential investors. However, as technology advances and costs continue to decline, the economic viability of offshore wind energy is expected to improve. Furthermore, international collaboration and knowledge sharing can help address these challenges and accelerate the development of offshore wind farms across the region.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
The transition to offshore wind power presents numerous environmental and economic benefits for Southeast Asia. By harnessing wind energy, countries can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, thereby decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. This shift is crucial for addressing climate change and its associated impacts on the region.
Moreover, the development of offshore wind farms can create thousands of jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance. The renewable energy sector is expected to become a significant source of employment, contributing to economic growth and development in Southeast Asian countries.
Global Context and Future Prospects
The global offshore wind market is experiencing rapid growth, with countries around the world investing heavily in this renewable energy source. According to the GWEC, global offshore wind capacity reached 35 GW in 2020, with projections indicating that this figure could rise to 234 GW by 2030. Southeast Asia's commitment to offshore wind power aligns with this global trend, positioning the region as a key player in the renewable energy landscape.
As Southeast Asian countries continue to develop their offshore wind resources, collaboration with international partners will be essential. Sharing best practices, technology transfer, and investment will help accelerate the growth of this sector. Additionally, regional cooperation can facilitate the establishment of a robust supply chain for offshore wind energy, further enhancing the region's competitiveness in the global market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Southeast Asia is poised to become a significant player in the offshore wind energy sector. With favorable wind resources, government support, and increasing investment, the region is on track to harness the potential of offshore wind power. As countries navigate the challenges and opportunities associated with this transition, the commitment to renewable energy will play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future for Southeast Asia.
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