Solar and biomass potential of renewable energy in selected ASEAN countries and Japan

Abstract

ASEAN region is believed to have a great potential for biomass and solar energy generation due to its abundance of sunlight, rain, and fertile land. However, these resources are still underutilized as the current rate of renewable energy is relatively low, whereby most countries are still highly emphasizing fossil fuels. The use of fuel without replenishing the fuel source will ultimately deplete the resource in very much the same as fossil fuels currently utilized. While the concept of fuel replenishment seemed simple, the implementation posed a challenge to meet. This is where free energy in the form of solar, wind, wave, underground thermal, and biomass is being harnessed. Therefore, these forms of energy also have certain limitations depending on the geographical and the availability of the sources throughout the region. This study aims to analyze the current potential renewable energy scenario and future prospect of renewable energy resource for biomass and solar energy in selected ASEAN countries and Japan.