Youth-led renewable energy advocacy groups in the region will convene in Bali, Indonesia from October 8 to 11 for REalTalk in Southeast Asia: Changing the Narrative Towards an Empowered and Resilient Region. 

This regional REaltalk workshop aims to cultivate a community of truth conveyors bearing the benefits and opportunities of a just energy transition in Southeast Asia. By sharing stories of communities thriving with renewable energy,  the new collective is envisioned to advocate for a region-wide shift away from fossil fuels, highlighting the real security and opportunities offered by diversified, sustainable power sources. 

REalTalk began as a nationwide initiative under The Climate Reality Project Philippines’ RE Energize PH program, aimed at mobilizing energy campaigners in building a movement for the Green Energy Option Program, a government mechanism that provides Filipino businesses the power of choice to source 100% renewable energy for their operations.   

“We are bringing REalTalk to Southeast Asia as we expand our vision of achieving a livable and sustainable future for a greater purpose—empowering more lives and establishing climate-resilient communities in the region,” Nazrin Castro, Branch Manager of The Climate Reality Project Philippines, said.

Envisioning a clean energy scenario for SEA

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has established an ambitious regional target of sourcing 23% of its total primary energy supply from renewable sources by 2025. However, the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE), says that the region risks falling short unless it effectively implements robust national renewable energy policies and comprehensive power development plans.

ASEAN’s installed power capacity is currently still predominantly reliant on fossil fuels, posing significant risks to energy security and sustainability. In its 2023 report, ACE highlighted that, as of 2022, fossil fuels constituted approximately 66.4% of the region’s installed power capacity.

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) stresses the urgency of a proactive energy transition, emphasizing enhanced energy efficiency, accelerated adoption of renewables, and innovation. This transition must align socio-economic structures with green jobs, foster international cooperation, and implement long-term planning for flexible, sustainable, and inclusive energy systems.

The power of youth in forging a greener future

Southeast Asia’s inaugural REalTalk workshop will mobilize youth leaders to amplify stories of empowerment and resilience in the realm of renewable energy. With young people projected to make up half of Southeast Asia’s population by 2050, according to World Bank data, they are poised to be key drivers of the region’s future.  

REalTalk aims to strengthen regional cooperation among youth-led energy organizations to foster energy security across Southeast Asia. Participants will develop campaign narratives for a just renewable energy transition, supported by a communication plan that promotes a clean and sustainable energy future for the region.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, and Linkedin to get more updates!

***