The Asian Development Bank and the Korea Energy Agency will convene regional policymakers, investors, and energy experts in Mandaluyong City next month as rising geopolitical tensions and surging electricity demand intensify pressure on Asia’s energy systems.
The Asia Clean Energy Forum (ACEF) 2026, scheduled from June 8 to 11 at ADB headquarters, comes as the ongoing Middle East conflict pushes energy prices higher across Asia and the Pacific while many economies continue to face widening power supply gaps.
ADB said this year’s forum will focus on strategies to diversify energy sources, strengthen grid resilience, and accelerate cross-border renewable energy integration to improve long-term energy security.
The event will also showcase the bank’s recently launched Pan-Asia Power Grid Initiative and ongoing efforts to advance the ASEAN Power Grid, both aimed at improving regional electricity connectivity and reducing dependence on volatile fuel imports.
ACEF 2026 coincides with ADB’s 60th anniversary and reflects the institution’s updated 2025 Energy Policy, which places greater emphasis on secure, resilient, and inclusive clean energy systems.
More than 400 million people across Asia and the Pacific still lack adequate access to reliable energy, even as regional economic growth is projected to slow to 4 percent in 2026 amid rising trade and geopolitical tensions.
Forum discussions will center on four major themes: energy security, resilient infrastructure, inclusion, and intelligent systems powered by digital technologies and artificial intelligence.
ADB said sessions will examine how AI and digitalization are reshaping power systems, while also addressing persistent energy access gaps and financing challenges confronting developing economies.
The annual forum is expected to gather representatives from governments, financial institutions, the private sector, civil society groups, and development organizations to explore practical clean energy solutions for the region.
