Bangkok, Thailand, February 24, 2025 – To lay the groundwork for a strong energy research and development network among Lancang-Mekong (LM) countries, the Mekong Institute (MI), with support from the Energy Development Research Institute of China Southern Power Grid (EDRI, CSG), organized a high-level forum that served as a platform for dialogue on clean energy cooperation. The forum brought together representatives from national energy ministries of Cambodia, China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam, along with private energy companies, multilateral development banks, and development organizations working on climate action and energy transition.
The event featured keynotes, panel discussions, and expert presentations highlighting the urgency of clean energy deployment to meet global and regional climate commitments. Discussions centered on strengthening collaboration and investment in sustainable energy solutions.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Jiang Wei, Minister Counselor, Economic and Commercial Office of the Embassy of China in Thailand, stated that the conference provides a valuable platform for discussing energy cooperation among countries in the region. He expressed China’s willingness to work with sub-regional countries to promote energy transition, address climate change, deepen experience sharing and mutually beneficial cooperation in the Lancang-Mekong region, and jointly build a clean and beautiful world.
MI Executive Director Mr. Suriyan Vichitlekarn emphasized that addressing energy transition challenges requires an integrated regional approach In his welcoming remarks.
“Many manufacturing sectors, particularly in industrial zones, not only require energy but demand clean energy to sustain industry development. This places significant pressure on the energy sector. While policies exist, implementation and addressing policy challenges are neither simple nor easy. National energy systems cannot tackle these issues in isolation. Therefore, regional cooperation in energy development is crucial,” said Mr. Suriyan.
Mr. Yang Xiongping, Vice President of EDRI, CSG, underscored how the global shift toward low-carbon, clean, and efficient energy presents new opportunities for regional energy cooperation and high-quality development.
“By leveraging complementary strengths and fostering win-win partnerships, we can accelerate the region’s green energy transition and contribute to the sustainable growth of our economies and societies,” said Mr. Yang.
In a keynote address, Mr. Hongpeng Liu, Director of the Energy Division at the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), stressed that energy transition is no longer just an environmental necessity but a driver of economic growth, regional cooperation, and inclusive development.
“Despite progress in electricity access, the Asia-Pacific region must accelerate its clean energy transition to meet global sustainability targets. To close the energy gap, countries must align their national energy strategies with SDG7 and commit to a just and inclusive transition,” he said.
Powering energy cooperation with rigorous, collaborative research
As part of the forum’s efforts to foster collaboration, the Lancang-Mekong Region Energy and Power Development Report 2024 was officially launched. With the energy transition in the LM region still in its early stages, the report serves as a key reference for promoting sustainable and green development.
Mr. Huang Yu, Director of the Office of the Lancang-Mekong Energy Research Center at EDRI, CSG, noted that the report provides valuable insights for experts, policymakers, and stakeholders shaping the region’s energy future. By analyzing key economic and energy trends, the report facilitates a roadmap for navigating the evolving energy development context of LM countries.
“The [report] offers a comprehensive analysis of the region’s energy landscape, highlighting progress, challenges, and future opportunities for sustainable development,” said Mr. Huang. “Through continued research and collaboration, we hope this report will support regional integration, cross-border connectivity, and the transition to a more sustainable energy future.”
Meanwhile, country-specific updates provided an overview of clean energy progress, with delegates exchanging insights on energy cooperation, cross-border electricity markets, and financing mechanisms for the energy transition.
A session on energy transition finance, moderated by Ms. Guohua Liu, Director of MI’s Sustainable Energy and Environment (SEE) Department, underscored the need for strengthened public-private partnerships and financial instruments such as green bonds and carbon pricing to scale up clean energy investments.
Experts also highlighted advancements in wind energy, hydrogen solutions, and energy efficiency measures that can support the region’s shift to a low-carbon future.
Using an online platform, participants collaboratively developed actionable recommendations focusing on policy harmonization, infrastructure development, and enhanced knowledge sharing. Some participants emphasized the need to build a stronger collaboration network, particularly among research and development institutions. By fostering these connections, stakeholders can work more effectively toward shared goals. These insights are expected to lay the foundation for future initiatives that will drive deeper cooperation and accelerate the clean energy transition in the LM region.
“No one nation can achieve energy transition alone; we must work together, share experiences, and create new opportunities… Let us turn today’s ideas into action. By working together, we build a cleaner, greener future,” said Ms. Guohua in her closing remarks.
For more information, please contact:
Ms. Tina Wang
Program Manager
Sustainable Energy and Environment Department
Mekong Institute
[email protected]
Tel. : + 66 (0) 4320 2411 ext 4101
(+66) 087-6371283
