Solar Energy Expands in Southeast Asia, But Who Will Bear the Costs?
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Countries in Southeast Asia are increasingly active in using solar energy to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. This effort has drawn attention from COP31, which is targeting billions of dollars in green financing for clean energy projects in the region.
However, in remote areas, communities still face ongoing problems with electricity costs. Solar facilities require frequent maintenance, as well as the replacement of equipment such as batteries at certain times. These costs do not end once installation is complete; instead, they must be paid repeatedly.
The main question that arises is who should bear the costs of operation and maintenance. The parties involved may include governments, energy companies, international financiers, or local residents. Each option has a different impact on the long-term sustainability of projects.
This issue is also relevant to Malaysia, as there are many villages and islands in the interior and in Sabah and Sarawak that are far from the main electricity grid. Therefore, how solar energy is financed is important not only for environmental purposes, but also for ensuring that electricity supply remains available to all residents.
Sources: South China Morning Post
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