Asia is rapidly transforming from a major consumer of traditional energy into a central driver of the global clean energy transition, according to a new report released by the Boao Forum for Asia.
The report, titled “Sustainable Development: Asia and the World Annual Report 2026,” outlines how digitalisation and green energy expansion are jointly shaping what it describes as a potential new “Asian miracle.”
It notes that the region accounts for more than half of global energy consumption and GDP output, while also hosting the world’s largest population factors that make its transition crucial for global climate goals.
According to the findings, Asia’s installed power generation capacity has surpassed 5.3 terawatts, with renewable sources contributing 2.67 terawatts nearly half of the total. The region now represents about 58 percent of global renewable energy capacity.
The report highlights that China plays a leading role in this transformation, with its clean energy capacity reaching 2.4 billion kilowatts in 2025, accounting for roughly 45 percent of global installed clean energy. It further notes that wind and solar power in China have, for the first time, exceeded thermal power capacity, marking a structural shift in its energy mix.
Beyond China, the report points to rapid progress across India, Japan, South Korea, ASEAN states, and Gulf countries, where investments in solar, wind, hydrogen, grid modernisation, and carbon capture technologies are accelerating.
It also underscores Asia’s dominance in green technology investment, accounting for significant global shares in solar, wind, battery, and hydrogen-related sectors.
Despite strong momentum, the report warns of structural challenges, including continued dependence on fossil fuels, weak grid infrastructure, and financing gaps that could slow the transition if not addressed through coordinated policy measures.
The Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2026 is being held in Hainan under the theme “Shaping a Shared Future: New Dynamics, New Opportunities, New Cooperation.”