IEA says cost of capital for solar remains high in Southeast Asia - pv magazine International
Published January 11, 2026
IEA Reports High Cost of Capital for Solar Projects in Southeast Asia
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has released a report highlighting the persistent challenges associated with the cost of capital for solar energy projects in Southeast Asia. This region, which is poised for significant growth in renewable energy, continues to face hurdles that impact the financial viability of solar investments.
According to the IEA, the cost of capital for solar photovoltaic (PV) projects in Southeast Asia remains elevated compared to other regions, which can hinder the rapid deployment of solar technologies. The report indicates that while the potential for solar energy is vast in Southeast Asia, the financial landscape presents a significant barrier to entry for developers and investors.
Current Financial Landscape for Solar Energy
The IEA’s findings underscore a critical issue: the cost of capital for solar projects in Southeast Asia is among the highest globally. This situation is attributed to several factors, including perceived risks associated with political stability, regulatory frameworks, and the overall investment climate in various countries within the region.
In particular, the report notes that investors are often concerned about the long-term stability of government policies related to renewable energy. This uncertainty can lead to higher risk premiums, which subsequently drive up the cost of capital for solar projects. Additionally, the lack of a robust financial infrastructure and limited access to financing options further complicates the situation.
Comparative Analysis with Other Regions
When comparing Southeast Asia to other regions, the IEA emphasizes that countries in Europe and North America have successfully lowered their cost of capital through supportive policies and stable regulatory environments. For instance, countries like Germany and the United States have implemented measures that reduce investment risks, thereby attracting more capital into the renewable energy sector.
In contrast, Southeast Asian nations are still in the process of developing comprehensive frameworks that would provide the necessary assurances to investors. The IEA’s report suggests that until these frameworks are established, the region will continue to struggle with high financing costs that can stifle the growth of solar energy.
Potential for Solar Energy in Southeast Asia
Despite the challenges, the IEA recognizes the significant potential for solar energy in Southeast Asia. The region is endowed with abundant sunlight, making it an ideal candidate for solar energy development. In fact, the IEA estimates that solar power could play a pivotal role in meeting the region's growing energy demand and achieving climate targets.
The report highlights that Southeast Asia could potentially generate over 1,000 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity from solar energy by 2030, provided that the necessary investments and policy frameworks are put in place. This transition to solar energy could not only help meet energy needs but also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change impacts.
Recommendations for Lowering Cost of Capital
To address the high cost of capital for solar projects, the IEA offers several recommendations aimed at improving the investment climate in Southeast Asia. These include:
- Enhancing Policy Stability: Governments should work towards creating more stable and predictable regulatory environments that can reassure investors about the long-term viability of solar projects.
- Developing Financial Instruments: The introduction of innovative financing mechanisms, such as green bonds and risk-sharing instruments, could help attract more capital into the solar sector.
- Capacity Building: Investing in capacity building for local financial institutions can enhance their ability to assess and finance renewable energy projects effectively.
- International Collaboration: Engaging in partnerships with international financial institutions can provide access to funding and technical expertise, which can help lower the cost of capital.
Conclusion
The IEA’s report serves as a crucial reminder of the challenges that Southeast Asia faces in scaling up solar energy deployment. While the region has immense potential for solar power generation, the high cost of capital remains a significant barrier to realizing this potential. By implementing the recommended strategies, Southeast Asian countries can work towards creating a more favorable investment landscape that encourages the growth of solar energy and contributes to a sustainable energy future.
As the global demand for renewable energy continues to rise, addressing these financial challenges will be essential for Southeast Asia to harness its solar potential effectively. The transition to a cleaner energy system will not only benefit the environment but also enhance energy security and economic development across the region.
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