Jakarta, 16 July 2024: ERIA is pleased to announce a research collaboration with Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Singapore and the Cyber Civilization Research Center (CCRC) at Keio University to conduct a study on promoting cybersecurity for Distributed Energy Systems (DES) and smart grids in ASEAN.

In January 2022, Prime Minister Kishida shared the philosophy that Asian countries will decarbonise and proposed the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) initiative as a collaborative effort to advance energy transitions. The Joint Statement of the AZEC Leaders' Summit in December 2023 highlighted ‘expansion of interregional cooperation and grid flexibility’ and ‘reliable renewable energy-based microgrids on remote islands’ as areas of support. The use of distributed energy resources (DER) such as renewable energy and the construction of smart grids are expected to contribute to decarbonisation and stable energy supply. Similarly, in ASEAN, distributed energy systems (DES) are also anticipated to aid in decarbonisation and supply security.

Given this background, the objectives of the study are:

1. Clarifying the status of institutional development, policies, and laws on the use of DERs with cybersecurity in ASEAN countries.
2. Developing guidelines on the cybersecurity of DERs in ASEAN and Japan by forming a study group.
3. Developing an action plan to adapt the guidelines to individual countries by holding workshops on the cybersecurity of DERs.

As an international organisation established under the East Asia Summit, ERIA is committed to supporting a just and orderly energy transition in Asian countries. This research partnership with NRI Singapore and CCRC at Keio University demonstrates ERIA's dedication to advancing sustainable energy solutions and promoting economic growth in the region.

We look forward to the positive impacts this collaboration will bring to the entire ASEAN region and East Asia in our pursuit of a cleaner and more sustainable future.

About Nomura Research Institute Singapore Pte. Ltd.:

Nomura Research Institute Singapore Pte. Ltd. succeeded NRI Asia Pacific (established in 1984) when it became a regional headquarters company. NRI Singapore supports the business development of its clients in the ASEAN region by helping formulate and implement their management and business strategies through its knowledge, know-how, and research capabilities, all backed by an extensive track record.

About the Cyber Civilization Research Center (CCRC) at Keio University:

The Cyber Civilization Research Center (CCRC) was established in 2018 under the Keio Global Research Institute (KGRI), an official institute of Keio University. The Center views the major changes brought about by technological advances such as the Internet, AI, and IoT as the dawn of a new civilisation and leads the way in technological and institutional formation.