Energy, Development and Protest: Assessing China's Official Finance in ASEAN's Power Sector

Abstract

Southeast Asia's economic growth demands substantial energy investment. This study investigates China's official financing for power generation in the ASEAN region since 2000 through a systematic mapping approach. Findings show that China has primarily supported coal and hydropower projects, especially in Indonesia, Vietnam, and Laos, while offering minimal renewable energy financing. This is mainly attributed to unfavorable local policy environments and China's focus on large‐scale infrastructure. The study also highlights widespread local resistance—particularly to coal projects—driven by environmental and livelihood concerns. The forms of mobilization were shaped by the political freedom in each country. While official Chinese coal financing largely ceased after 2019, aligning with Beijing's international climate commitments, questions remain about the enforcement of this pledge and the broader shift toward green energy. The study concludes by examining the structural and political barriers that have historically favored fossil fuel investments over renewables in the region.