Southeast Asia’s onshore wind capacity to hit 26 GW by 2030 - Asian Power
Published December 17, 2025
Southeast Asia’s Onshore Wind Capacity Projected to Reach 26 GW by 2030
Southeast Asia is poised for a significant increase in its onshore wind energy capacity, with projections indicating that the region's total capacity will reach 26 gigawatts (GW) by the year 2030. This growth is driven by a combination of factors, including supportive government policies, advancements in technology, and increasing investments from both domestic and international stakeholders.
According to a recent report by GlobalData, the region's onshore wind capacity is expected to expand from approximately 11 GW in 2020 to 26 GW by 2030. This represents an annual growth rate of about 10.3%. The report highlights that countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines are leading the charge in developing onshore wind projects, capitalizing on their favorable geographic conditions and government incentives.
Key Drivers of Growth
The surge in onshore wind capacity in Southeast Asia can be attributed to several key drivers. Firstly, the growing demand for renewable energy solutions to meet rising electricity consumption is a significant factor. As urbanization and industrialization continue to accelerate in the region, the need for sustainable energy sources becomes increasingly urgent.
Secondly, many Southeast Asian nations are setting ambitious renewable energy targets as part of their commitments to the Paris Agreement. For example, Vietnam aims to increase its renewable energy share to 20% by 2030, while Thailand has set a target of 30% of its energy generation coming from renewable sources by the same year. These targets create a favorable policy environment for the development of wind energy projects.
Furthermore, advancements in wind turbine technology have made onshore wind energy more viable and cost-effective. The efficiency of modern turbines has improved significantly, allowing for greater energy output even in areas with lower wind speeds. This technological progress is encouraging more investments in onshore wind farms across the region.
Investment Landscape
The investment landscape for onshore wind energy in Southeast Asia is becoming increasingly attractive. According to the report, total investments in the region's wind energy sector are expected to reach approximately $40 billion by 2030. This influx of capital is expected to come from a mix of public and private sources, including government funding, international financial institutions, and private equity firms.
Vietnam is expected to dominate the investment landscape, with a projected capacity increase from 5.4 GW in 2020 to 12.7 GW by 2030. The Vietnamese government has implemented various incentives to attract foreign investment in the renewable energy sector, including feed-in tariffs and streamlined permitting processes.
Thailand is also expected to see significant growth, with its onshore wind capacity projected to reach 5.7 GW by 2030, up from 1.5 GW in 2020. The Thai government has committed to enhancing its renewable energy framework, which is expected to spur further investment in wind energy projects.
Challenges to Overcome
Despite the promising outlook for onshore wind energy in Southeast Asia, several challenges remain. One of the primary obstacles is the need for robust infrastructure to support the integration of wind energy into existing power grids. Many countries in the region are still developing their electricity transmission and distribution networks, which can hinder the efficient delivery of wind-generated power to consumers.
Additionally, regulatory and bureaucratic hurdles can delay project approvals and increase costs for developers. Streamlining the permitting process and ensuring clear regulatory frameworks will be crucial for accelerating the growth of onshore wind projects in Southeast Asia.
Another challenge is the competition from other renewable energy sources, particularly solar power. The declining costs of solar technology have made it an attractive option for many countries in the region. As a result, policymakers must balance investments in both wind and solar energy to achieve their renewable energy targets effectively.
Future Outlook
The future of onshore wind energy in Southeast Asia appears promising, with significant growth expected in the coming years. The region's total onshore wind capacity is projected to reach 26 GW by 2030, driven by favorable government policies, technological advancements, and increased investments.
As countries in Southeast Asia continue to prioritize renewable energy development, the onshore wind sector is likely to play a critical role in meeting their energy needs while contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. The path forward will require collaboration among governments, private investors, and local communities to ensure the successful implementation of wind energy projects across the region.
In conclusion, Southeast Asia's onshore wind capacity is on track for substantial growth, with projections indicating a rise to 26 GW by 2030. The region's commitment to renewable energy, combined with ongoing investments and technological advancements, positions it as a key player in the global transition to sustainable energy sources.
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