Expert perspective: A clean energy transition roadmap for CLMV countries to 2035

Background

All four CLMV countries have announced commitments related to emission reduction and expanding the share of renewable energy in their power mix, yet readiness in terms of infrastructure and finance varies considerably among them.

This piece draws together an expert perspective based on advisory experience and energy policy research in the region in recent years.

Methods

The analysis is based on a review of publicly available policy documents from the four countries, combined with informal discussions with several experts and policymakers in the energy sector.

The approach focuses on qualitative comparison across countries in terms of regulatory maturity, renewable energy pricing mechanisms, and access to international financing.

Key findings

The analysis finds that the largest barrier to expanding renewable energy in the region lies not in natural resource availability but in investment absorption capacity and the consistency of regulatory frameworks across countries.

Some countries already have relatively clear renewable energy pricing mechanisms, while others are still developing their regulatory frameworks, resulting in differing paces of investment attraction.

Policy recommendations

The author recommends that CLMV countries consider establishing an annual forum to share renewable energy policy experience, helping to narrow regulatory gaps among countries.

It also recommends a coordinated mechanism for mobilising international finance at the group level, making it easier for small and medium-scale projects in each country to access climate finance.