Asia Must Address Climate Change And Rising Energy Demand -- Mitsubishi Power

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 8 (Bernama) -- Asian countries must address both climate change and rising energy demand to meet their economic ambitions, said Mitsubishi Power executive vice-president Takao Tsukui.

He emphasised the urgency of tackling climate change, particularly in Asia, which has recently experienced extreme weather such as heavy rainfall and typhoons.

"Our energy infrastructure will be key in addressing climate change. Nevertheless, the rollout of new and cleaner forms of energy must do more than replace the existing infrastructure.

"It must also keep pace with growing energy demand, which is rising alongside Asia’s economies. New technologies, such as data centres and artificial intelligence (AI), are especially energy intensive," he said during his opening remarks at Enlit Asia 2024, here today.

Tsukui said Malaysia has greatly benefitted from traditional energy sources. But, like many others, it recognises the urgency of climate change and has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with 70 per cent of its energy coming from renewable sources.

He said a common challenge faced by many Asian countries is balancing the energy transition with rising demand driven by strong economic growth.

"No single country or company can achieve energy goals alone. But it is within reach, which is why we must collaborate across sectors, regions, and borders," he added.

Mitsubishi Power is a power solutions brand of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.

-- BERNAMA