Bangkok pilots electric motorcycle taxis to cut pollution as Thailand seeks EV boost

As global demand for steel is rising, Indonesia’s steel industry is one of the country’s largest industrial greenhouse gas emitters and is set to become far more polluting if current trends continue, according to a nonprofit report.

Thailand and Vietnam are moving ahead with major reforms to transform their power sectors, aiming to cut fossil fuel dependence and meet long-term climate goals. Both countries are reshaping their electricity markets to attract private investment and accelerate renewable energy development.

The Philippines wants to become a regional data centre hub, but high power prices, coal-heavy electricity, grid constraints and climate risks are testing that vision. Analysts say data centres could grow fast, yet competitiveness will depend on how quickly renewables, grid upgrades, permitting reforms and climate-resilient infrastructure actually materialise on the ground.

Vietnam’s industry ministry has proposed raising the cap on surplus rooftop solar sold to the grid from 20% to 50%, with payments linked to average market prices but below ground-mounted solar tariffs. The draft also allows surplus from public buildings and waives caps in off-grid mountainous, border, and island areas.