Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam to boost pumped-storage hydropower - Nikkei Asia

Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam to boost pumped-storage hydropower - Nikkei Asia

Published December 18, 2025

Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam to Enhance Pumped-Storage Hydropower

Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam are set to expand their investment in pumped-storage hydropower projects as part of a broader initiative to bolster renewable energy and enhance energy security in the region. This move comes as these Southeast Asian nations seek to transition away from fossil fuels and address the growing demand for electricity driven by economic development and population growth.

Pumped-storage hydropower is a proven technology that allows for the storage of energy generated during periods of low demand and its release during peak demand times. This capability is particularly valuable in the context of increasing reliance on intermittent renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. By utilizing pumped-storage systems, these countries aim to stabilize their electricity grids and ensure a reliable power supply.

Thailand's Commitment to Renewable Energy

Thailand has set ambitious goals for renewable energy, aiming to generate 30% of its power from renewable sources by 2037. The country currently relies heavily on natural gas, which accounts for approximately 65% of its energy mix. The Thai government is actively promoting the development of hydropower, including pumped-storage projects, as part of its energy transition strategy.

One of the key projects under consideration is the construction of the Pak Mun Dam, which has the potential to serve as a significant pumped-storage facility. The government is also exploring partnerships with private investors to enhance funding and expertise in developing these projects. The focus on pumped-storage hydropower aligns with Thailand's goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing energy independence.

Indonesia's Renewable Energy Expansion

Indonesia is also making strides in the development of pumped-storage hydropower as part of its commitment to increase the share of renewables in its energy mix. The country aims to achieve 23% of its energy from renewable sources by 2025, with hydropower playing a crucial role in this transition.

The Indonesian government has identified several potential sites for pumped-storage projects, particularly in mountainous regions where the geography is favorable for such developments. One of the notable projects is the Upper Cisokan Pumped Storage Power Plant, which is expected to have a capacity of 1,040 megawatts (MW) upon completion. This facility will not only enhance the reliability of the power supply but also support the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid.

In addition to new projects, Indonesia is also focusing on modernizing existing hydropower plants to improve their efficiency and capacity. This approach will help the country maximize its hydropower potential while minimizing environmental impacts.

Vietnam's Hydropower Development Strategy

Vietnam is taking significant steps to strengthen its hydropower infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on pumped-storage systems. The country has set a target of generating 15% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, with hydropower being a key component of this strategy.

The Vietnamese government is currently investing in several pumped-storage projects, including the Lai Chau Hydropower Plant, which has a total installed capacity of 1,200 MW. This facility is designed to enhance the stability of the national grid and accommodate the growing share of renewable energy sources.

Vietnam's focus on pumped-storage hydropower is also driven by the need to manage the variability of solar and wind energy generation. As the country continues to expand its renewable energy capacity, the integration of pumped-storage systems will be essential for maintaining grid stability and ensuring a consistent power supply.

Regional Collaboration and Investment

The collaboration between Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam in the development of pumped-storage hydropower projects underscores the importance of regional cooperation in addressing energy challenges. These countries are exploring opportunities for knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and joint investments to accelerate the deployment of hydropower systems.

International financial institutions and development banks are also showing interest in funding pumped-storage projects in the region. By providing financial support and technical expertise, these organizations aim to facilitate the transition to renewable energy and help Southeast Asian nations achieve their energy goals.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the expansion of pumped-storage hydropower presents significant opportunities for Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, there are also challenges that need to be addressed. One of the primary concerns is the environmental impact of constructing new hydropower facilities, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas. Ensuring that projects are developed in an environmentally sustainable manner will be critical to gaining public support and minimizing negative consequences.

Additionally, securing financing for large-scale pumped-storage projects can be a hurdle, as these initiatives often require substantial upfront investment. However, with the increasing global focus on renewable energy and the potential for long-term returns, there is a growing interest from both public and private investors in funding these projects.

Conclusion

As Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam pursue their respective energy transition goals, the enhancement of pumped-storage hydropower systems will play a pivotal role in ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy future. By leveraging regional collaboration and investment, these countries are positioning themselves to meet the growing energy demands while contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.

The commitment to pumped-storage hydropower reflects a broader trend in Southeast Asia towards renewable energy development, highlighting the region's potential to become a leader in clean energy solutions. With continued investment and innovation, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam are set to make significant strides in their renewable energy journeys.

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Patel Engineering Secures INR 239.98 Crore Hydropower Project from NHPC - Energetica India Magazine

Patel Engineering Secures INR 239.98 Crore Hydropower Project from NHPC - Energetica India Magazine

Published December 18, 2025

Patel Engineering Secures INR 239.98 Crore Hydropower Project from NHPC

Patel Engineering Limited has successfully obtained a hydropower project valued at INR 239.98 crore from the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC). This significant contract marks a vital step in the company's ongoing commitment to enhancing renewable energy infrastructure in India.

The awarded project involves the construction of the 2x33 MW (Megawatt) hydropower plant located on the Doodhganga River in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The project is expected to contribute to the region's energy requirements while promoting sustainable development through renewable energy sources.

Patel Engineering has a rich history of executing large-scale infrastructure projects across various sectors, including hydropower. This latest contract reinforces the company's position as a key player in the renewable energy sector within India. The project aligns with the Indian government's initiative to boost the share of renewable energy in the country's overall energy mix.

The Doodhganga hydropower project will not only generate electricity but also create jobs and foster economic growth in the surrounding areas. Patel Engineering is committed to ensuring that the project adheres to the highest standards of environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

In addition to this project, Patel Engineering has been involved in various other renewable energy initiatives, showcasing its expertise and dedication to advancing clean energy solutions. The company continues to explore opportunities in hydropower, solar, and other renewable energy sectors, reflecting the growing demand for sustainable energy sources in India.

As the world shifts towards cleaner energy alternatives, projects like the Doodhganga hydropower plant play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. Patel Engineering's collaboration with NHPC is a testament to the increasing focus on hydropower as a viable and sustainable energy solution.

With this new project, Patel Engineering aims to not only enhance its portfolio but also contribute to the broader goals of energy security and environmental protection in India. The successful execution of the Doodhganga project is expected to set a benchmark for future renewable energy projects in the region.

In conclusion, Patel Engineering's acquisition of the INR 239.98 crore hydropower project from NHPC emphasizes the importance of investing in renewable energy infrastructure. As the demand for clean energy continues to rise, the company's efforts will be instrumental in shaping a sustainable energy future for India.

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Asia-Pacific region should align energy, data centre plans - Asian Power

Asia-Pacific region should align energy, data centre plans - Asian Power

Published December 18, 2025

Asia-Pacific Region Must Harmonize Energy and Data Centre Strategies

The Asia-Pacific region is at a pivotal point in its energy transition, particularly as it relates to the burgeoning data centre industry. Experts are urging that energy strategies and data centre development plans should be aligned to ensure sustainability and efficiency across the board. As the demand for data storage and processing capacity continues to rise, the implications for energy consumption are significant. This alignment is deemed essential for meeting both energy needs and sustainability targets.

According to a recent report, the Asia-Pacific data centre market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.4% between 2023 and 2028, reaching a value of approximately USD 50 billion by 2028. This growth is driven largely by the increasing adoption of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT). However, this rapid expansion raises critical questions about energy consumption and the environmental impact of these facilities.

Energy Consumption and Environmental Concerns

Data centres are known to be energy-intensive, consuming large amounts of electricity to power servers and maintain optimal cooling conditions. In fact, it is estimated that data centres currently account for about 2% of global greenhouse gas emissions. As the Asia-Pacific region continues to expand its digital infrastructure, the energy demands of data centres are expected to rise significantly, potentially exacerbating environmental concerns.

In light of this, industry experts emphasize the importance of integrating energy planning with data centre development. This integration can help ensure that energy resources are used efficiently and sustainably. For instance, renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power can be harnessed to meet the energy demands of these facilities, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.

Government Initiatives and Policies

Governments across the Asia-Pacific region are beginning to recognize the need for a coordinated approach to energy and data centre planning. Several countries are implementing policies aimed at promoting the use of renewable energy in data centres. For example, Singapore has set ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions and increase the use of renewable energy sources. The Singapore government is actively encouraging data centre operators to adopt energy-efficient technologies and practices.

Similarly, Australia has launched initiatives aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in data centres. The Australian government has introduced various programs to support the transition to renewable energy, including incentives for businesses to invest in energy-efficient technologies. These initiatives are crucial for ensuring that the growth of the data centre sector aligns with national and regional sustainability goals.

Technological Innovations and Best Practices

In addition to government initiatives, technological innovations play a critical role in aligning energy and data centre strategies. Advances in energy-efficient cooling systems, server virtualization, and energy management software are helping data centre operators reduce their energy consumption. For instance, the adoption of liquid cooling technology can significantly lower the energy required for cooling, while server virtualization allows for better utilization of existing resources.

Best practices in data centre design and operation are also becoming increasingly important. The implementation of energy-efficient designs, such as modular data centres that can be easily scaled up or down based on demand, is gaining traction. Furthermore, the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning can optimize energy usage by predicting workload demands and adjusting energy consumption accordingly.

Regional Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing

To facilitate the alignment of energy and data centre strategies, regional collaboration and knowledge sharing are essential. Industry stakeholders, including data centre operators, energy providers, and government agencies, must work together to develop best practices and share insights on energy-efficient technologies. Collaborative efforts can also lead to the establishment of industry standards that promote sustainability in data centre operations.

Organizations such as the Asia-Pacific Data Centre Alliance (APDCA) are playing a vital role in fostering collaboration among industry players. By providing a platform for knowledge exchange and networking, the APDCA aims to drive innovation and sustainability in the data centre sector across the region.

Future Outlook

The future of the data centre industry in the Asia-Pacific region is closely tied to the region's energy transition. As demand for data storage and processing continues to grow, the need for sustainable energy solutions will become increasingly critical. Aligning energy strategies with data centre development plans is not just a necessity but an opportunity to drive innovation and achieve sustainability targets.

In conclusion, the Asia-Pacific region must prioritize the alignment of energy and data centre strategies to ensure a sustainable future. By leveraging renewable energy sources, adopting best practices, and fostering collaboration, the region can effectively manage the energy demands of its expanding digital infrastructure while minimizing environmental impact. The path forward will require concerted efforts from all stakeholders involved, but the potential benefits of a harmonized approach are significant and far-reaching.

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