Future of the Grid: Strengthening ASEAN's Grid Power Quality by Harnessing Stability with DERs and Synchrophasors

Executive Summary

In recent years, the ASEAN’s power grid landscape is evolving. The integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), such as rooftop solar photovoltaics (PV) systems and battery energy storage, is reshaping ASEAN’s power systems by increasing flexibility and resilience. Despite the region’s abundant renewable energy resources like solar and wind, the adoption of DERs remains largely untapped. The 8th ASEAN Energy Outlook (AEO8) highlights that Indonesia, Malaysia and Viet Nam have significant solar potential, with Indonesia alone capable of 194 GW to 655 GW, yet as of 2023, only 140 MW had been installed which falling short of its 2025 target of 3.6 GW. While policy measures such as feed-in tariffs have supported adoption, barriers such as low net-metering rates, high costs and regulatory hurdles continue to slow progress.

Power quality is a critical factor in power system stability, influenced by frequency, voltage, and harmonics. The stability of these parameters is essential for maintaining reliable energy supply. However, ASEAN Member States (AMS) face distinct challenges in integrating DERs into the grid. Viet Nam, with its high share of variable renewable energy, struggles with transmission congestion, forecast errors, and low system inertia. Thailand deals with major line tripping and generation trips, while Lao PDR, heavily dependent on hydropower, must manage seasonal fluctuations between surplus and shortages.

To mitigate these risks, advanced power system monitoring and control solutions must be adopted. Technologies such as synchrophasors and phasor measurement units (PMUs) offer real-time visibility of grid conditions, enabling faster detection and response to disturbances. Wide-Area Monitoring, Protection, and Control (WAMPAC) systems further enhance grid resilience by enabling predictive analytics and automated corrective actions. These innovations, combined with enhanced regulatory frameworks and digital grid modernisation which will be a key to future-proofing ASEAN’s power systems to ensure a stable, efficient, and high-quality electricity supply.