The IEA Regional Cooperation Centre in Singapore
The IEA Regional Cooperation Centre in Singapore is a milestone in the International Energy Agency’s global engagement. Inaugurated during the IEA’s 50th anniversary year, it is the Agency’s first office outside its Paris headquarters, reflecting Southeast Asia’s growing role in the global energy landscape and the IEA’s commitment to supporting energy security in the region.
Southeast Asia is one of the world’s fastest-growing economic regions where energy demand is also rising strongly. The region currently relies heavily on imported fuels to meet much of its energy needs but is moving to take greater advantage of its significant renewable energy potential. The IEA Regional Cooperation Centre was established as a dedicated hub to support Southeast Asian countries in pursuing their energy policy priorities to drive economic development and ensure a secure, affordable and sustainable energy future for the region.
The Centre works with countries across the region to draw on the IEA’s global expertise. This includes providing policy advice, technical assistance and capacity building aligned with national and regional priorities.
To strengthen regional energy security and resilience, the Centre advances innovation, supply chain development – including critical minerals – and financing solutions. With eight of ASEAN’s ten member states committed to net zero emissions targets, the Centre helps design and implement strategies for clean energy deployment, energy efficiency, power system modernisation, and improved grid interconnections. By supporting work on clean energy technologies, supply chains, and innovation ecosystems, the RCC helps future-proof the region’s energy systems.
Recognising the critical role of finance, the RCC is working to help Southeast Asian countries tackle energy investment challenges they face. The Centre supports tools such as the IEA’s Cost of Capital Observatory and conducts analysis to improve access to finance, especially for electricity grids and emerging technologies like battery storage, hydrogen, and carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS).
The establishment of the RCC in Singapore represents a shared commitment to stronger regional partnerships and support for Southeast Asia’s energy security and transitions. It reinforces the IEA’s mission to deliver practical, forward-looking solutions for energy security and sustainability.
The IEA’s Regional Cooperation Centre is working to strengthen Southeast Asia’s energy future
Commentary — 17 April 2025