GMS Energy Transition Task Force (ETTF)
Lead Agency: Ministry of Energy (Energy Policy and Planning Office)
Background and Principles
The Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Program aims to drive the regional energy strategy through three key pillars: (1) expanding clean energy trade and cross-border power grid interconnection; (2) promoting energy efficiency and conservation; and (3) strengthening the capacity of member countries for the clean energy transition. Although member countries have varying levels of economic development, they share a common goal of enhancing energy security and environmental protection. The GMS 2030 Strategic Framework prioritizes the development of cross-border electricity trade, the establishment of regional grid standards, energy market development, and the promotion of clean energy investment, as well as increasing the role of the private sector.
In recent years, regional energy demand has increased rapidly in line with economic growth. Although coal and gas still account for a significant share of power generation, countries have expanded their use of renewable energy, such as hydropower, solar, and wind energy, alongside the development of energy infrastructure like Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and pumped-storage hydropower plants. Cooperation under the GMS and linkages with ASEAN initiatives, such as the ASEAN Power Grid (APG), play a crucial role in developing cross-border electricity trade mechanisms, facilitating knowledge exchange, and supporting the region’s long-term transition to clean and sustainable energy systems.
Recent Progress
Energy cooperation is being driven through the implementation of the ETTF-5 work plan in key areas, including the promotion of regional electricity trade, energy demand-side management, and technological capacity building, alongside preparations for the GMS ETTF-6 meeting and study visits. Furthermore, member countries have endorsed the GMS Energy Sector Strategy 2024–2030, which serves as a guiding framework for developing clean energy cooperation, grid interconnection, energy efficiency improvement, and a just energy transition. This includes supporting the integration of cooperation with the private sector and developing projects under the Regional Investment Framework (RIF) 2026–2028 to drive concrete implementation in the next phase.
