Conclusions (in The Routledge Handbook of Energy in Asia)

This chapter provides final reflections on Asian energy based on the discussions presented in various chapters of the book. Asia will play an important role in the global energy scene during the present century. As economic growth, urbanisation and per capita income growth continues, the economies will gradually move from the middle income to higher income categories. Secure and reliable energy supply will be required to support the transformation of the region. While there will be a tendency to rely on cheap local resources such as coal, its environmental and social impacts will become less acceptable to the society and the region will have to negotiate a less environmentally damaging development and climate friendly energy pathway. Transition to a sustainable energy pathway and universal access to such energies will require concerted efforts at the country and regional levels with the guidance and support of the international community. But greater regional cooperation, integration and learning from one another will also play a vital role.