Advancing Access to Renewable Energy in Southeast Asia to Enhance Energy Security

This study introduces a multidimensional dependent variable, the green power index (GPI), as a relevant indicator for evaluating sustainable power markets and examines its key drivers. Using a product lifecycle management estimator within an Autoregressive Distributive Lag panel model, the analysis covers nine Southeast Asian countries. The findings suggest that economic growth, higher foreign direct investment (FDI), increased research and development (R&D) efforts, enhanced governance, and privatization are significant contributors to fostering a sustainable power market and ensuring energy security in the short and long term. Conversely, rising electricity prices may impede progress. The empirical results highlight critical policy recommendations, including reforming electricity tariffs, promoting green growth, and enhancing trade, investment, and cooperation among Southeast Asian nations and other global economic players to strengthen energy security.