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Project Title

AI-driven Renewable Energy Optimization for Sustainability and Resilience

Project Year

2025

Project Number

EWG_202_2025A

Project Session

Session 2

Project Type

Standard

Project Status

Project in Implementation
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Project No.

EWG_202_2025A

Project Title

*
AI-driven Renewable Energy Optimization for Sustainability and Resilience

Project Status

Project in Implementation

Fund Account

*
APEC Support Fund

Sub-fund

ASF: Energy Efficiency, Low Carbon and Energy Resiliency Measures (EELCER)

Project Year

2025

Project Session

*
Session 2

APEC Funding

91,375

Co-funding Amount

0

Total Project Value

91,375

Sponsoring Forum

*
Energy Working Group (EWG)

Topics

Energy; Science and Technology; Women's Economic Empowerment

Committee

SOM Steering Committee on Economic and Technical Cooperation (SCE)

Other Fora Involved

Other Non-APEC Stakeholders Involved

 

Proposing Economy(ies)

Malaysia

Co-Sponsoring Economies

Chile; China; Hong Kong, China; Thailand

Expected Start Date

01/02/2026

Expected Completion Date

30/06/2027

Project Proponent Name 1

Thinagaran Perumal

Job Title 1

Head of Department / Associate Professor Dr

Organization 1

Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia

Telephone 1

+60126594933

Email 1

thinagaran@upm.edu.my

Project Proponent Name 2

Shamala K Subramaniam

Job Title 2

Dean

Organization 2

Universiti Putra Malaysia

Telephone 2

+60123113570

Email 2

shamala_ks@upm.edu.my

Declaration

Thinagaran Perumal

Project Summary

The Asia-Pacific region is currently facing the challenges of growing energy demand, carbon emission control and the integration of renewable energy.Traditional energy dispatchmethods are inefficient and difficult to adapt to volatile renewableenergy supply. Furthermore, the lack of female participation and leadership in the energy industry affects the inclusivity of sustainable development.

This project uses AI to optimize renewable energy dispatch, improve energy utilization efficiency, reduce carbonemissions, and supportESG (environmental, socialand governance) goals. The project will promote the women’s role in energy technology and leadership to promote inclusivity growth,while focusing on Planetary Healthto ensure the sustainability of energy development and ecosystems.

From 2026 to 2027, the project will produce a background researchpaper, host workshops inviting government agencies, sustainable development and AI experts,academic research institutions, female leaders and energy companies.

Relevance

Region

This project focuses on key challenges in renewable energy dispatch and carbon emission control in the Asia-Pacific region. This project uses artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize renewable energy dispatch, improveenergy utilization efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and help APEC economies achieve green and low-carbon transformation. At the same time, the project emphasizes the role of women in energy technology and leadership and encourages women’s participation and development in the fields of renewable energy and AI to promote more inclusive and sustainable growth.

This project will bring long-term sustainable benefits to multiple APEC economies:

  1. Optimize renewable energy utilization and reduce carbon emissions
  2. Improve the stabilityand resilience of energy systemsand adapt to climate change
  3. Promote the application of AI technology in the energy field
  4. Encourage women’s participation in energy and technology
  5. Strengthen regional cooperation and promote policyand technology sharing


Eligibility and Fund Priorities

This project uses AI to optimize renewable energy dispatch, improve energy utilization efficiency, and reduce energywaste and carbon emissions, fully supporting EELCER'score goals of promoting energyefficiency, low-carbon transition, and energy resilience. This technological innovation package helps APEC economies use renewable energy more efficiently and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, in line with the goals of ESI and SR 2022-2040. Also, the project combines AI to optimize energy forecasting and allocation to enhance the energy resilience of APEC economies in the face of energy market fluctuations and extreme climate events, consistent with EELCER'sgoal of strengthening energy infrastructure and supply chainstability. This project fills the gap between policy and technical practice and helps APEC economies achieve a more efficient, lower-carbon, and more resilientenergy system, which is fully in line with the support direction of EELCER funds.


Capacity Building

This project uses a variety of activities to build the capacity of participants and their institutions to address energy policychallenges. By holdingworkshop to improvethe application skillsof AI in renewable energy, promote joint research, promote inter-agency knowledge exchange and policy innovation and build a communication platform, and strengthen dialogueand cooperation between policy makers,industry experts and academia. These measures will help enhancethe policy formulation and implementation capabilities of APEC economies in energy efficiency, low- carbon transition and energy resilience, and promote regionalsustainable development.

Objectives

This project aims to use AI to optimize renewable energy dispatch, improve energy utilization efficiency, reducecarbon emissions, and promote sustainable energy development in the Asia- Pacific region. Through intelligent dispatch, we can improve the stability and reliability of energy supply, promote the wider application of clean energy, and help economies achieve carbon neutrality goals. Additionally, the project promotes women’s leadership in energy technology, fostering greater diversity and inclusion. This project will also provide actionable insights and recommendations through research and workshops, ensuring a more resilient, equitable, and environmentally sustainable energy future.

Alignment

APEC

1) Enhancing energysecurity and promotingenergy efficiency throughdiversification of energy sources, including renewable energy, and deployment of new technologies.”(APEC Energy Security Initiative) This project leverages AI to enhance renewable energy dispatch efficiency and expand its adoption across the Asia-Pacific, strengthening energy security.


2) “We will pursue innovation and a digitally enabled economy that fosters economicprogress and improves lives, recognizing the role of digitalization and new technologies in increasing productivity and sustainability.” (APEC Putrajaya Vision 2040) This project combines AI to advance renewable energy management to support the digital transformation of the energysector.


3) “Transitioning towards a low-carbon economy through sustainable energy and climate-smart policies while ensuring economic growthand energy security.” (APEC Sustainability Roadmap2022-2040) AI- driven optimization reduces energy waste and carbon emissions.


4) “Promoting women’s full participation in all sectors, includingleadership roles in science, technology, and innovation, to drive inclusive economic growth.” (APEC Policy Partnership on Women and the Economy) This project actively involves female leaders and researchers in discussions to strengthen women’s role in energy and technology leadership.


Forum

This project is highly aligned with APEC’s priorities of energy security, digital economy, low- carbon development and women’sempowerment. It optimizes renewable energy dispatch through AI and supports the goals of APEC's ESI and SR 2022-2040 while promoting the implementation of APEC's PV 2040. In addition, this project actively promotes women’s leadership in the energyand technology sectors,in line with the core agenda of APEC’s PPWE. Currently, the demand for intelligent energymanagement in the Asia-Pacific regionis growing. This projectprovides innovative AI solutions, fills the gap between policyand technical practice, and provides a feasiblepath for green growth and sustainable development of APEC economies.

Beneficiaries and Outputs

Output


1) Background Research Paper

The project will deliver a background research paper that reviews how AI is currently appliedin renewable energyplanning, forecasting, and operation across APEC economies. The Paper will be developed throughdesk research of academic and policy literature, combined with a short survey sent to all APEC economiesto collect information on national practices, digital readiness, and existing AI-related initiatives. Based on the evidence gathered, the Paper will analyse 2–3 representative pilot cases, such as AI-based energy forecasting or predictive maintenance for renewable systems, to illustrate practical applications and transferable lessons. The Paper will also include a brief stakeholder mapping to identify key actors in each economy who are involved in AI-driven renewable energy initiatives. Serving as a preparatory reference for shaping the Workshop agenda, the Paper will be circulated to APEC economies in advance to support informed participation. It will be minimum 10 pages excluding annexes, summarising AI’s current landscape, key challenges, pilot case insights, stakeholder roles, and implications for Workshop discussions.


2) APEC Workshop on AI-Driven Renewable Energy Optimisation (APEC Publication)

A two-full-day (7 hours per day) hybrid (online and in-person) workshop will be organized in Kuala Lumpur, bringing together policymakers, researchers, and industry experts to discuss AI-basedrenewable energy dispatch,policy integration mechanisms, and best practices for sustainable energymanagement. The first day will focus on technical presentations and pilot case demonstrations, including AI models for renewable forecasting, optimization of energy dispatch, and resilience strategies, while the second day will emphasize policy discussions, cross-economy collaboration, and development of actionable recommendations. At least 40% of participants will be female,and nominations from all genderswill be encouraged to ensure diverseperspectives. A tentativeagenda will be prepared detailingtopics of discussion for each sessionacross both days. Key deliverables include a workshop summary and actionable recommendations to be included in the Integrated Technical and Policy Report.An ex-post surveyto be circulated to participants after the Workshop to capture feedback, evaluate knowledge transfer, and inform future capacity-building activities.


3) Integrated Technical and Policy Report on AI-Enabled Energy Transition

A comprehensive report consolidating the findings from the Background Research Paper, pilot case analyses, and workshop discussions. The Report will provide an overview of AI algorithmic frameworks for renewable energydispatch, summarize performance evaluations across pilot cases, and analyze policy implications for enhancing energy system resilience. It will also include actionable policy recommendations for integrating AI into national energy strategies. The rough contents of the Report will cover: an executive summary, background and methodology, detailed analysis of pilot cases, synthesis of workshop insights, technical and policy recommendations, and annexes. The Report will have a minimum of 20 pages (excluding annexes) and will be publishedas an official APEC Publication, to be disseminated to the APEC Energy Working Group (EWG), the Policy Partnership on Science, Technology and Innovation (PPSTI), and relevant stakeholders across APEC economies.


Outcome

1) Enhanced understanding of AI applications in renewable energyacross APEC economies through the Background Research Paper. The Paper will consolidate pilot case analysesand desk reviewfindings, providing a solid evidencebase to inform the Workshop agenda,facilitate stakeholder discussions, and guide subsequent development of integrated technical and policy recommendations.


2) Enhanced capacityand knowledge amongpolicymakers, researchers, and industry representatives from APEC economies to understand and apply AI-based optimization methods for renewable energy management. Participants will gain practical insights and tools to support local implementation.


3) Improved evidencebase and policyalignment across APEC economies throughthe dissemination of the integrated technical and policy report.The document will inform futureenergy transition strategies and promote harmonized approaches to AI adoption in energy planning.


Beneficiaries

The selection criteriafor participants in this projectcover professional backgrounds in the fields of renewable energy management, artificial intelligence or energy policy.Priority will be given to the member economies in APEC. The project will invite suitable participants through official channels, academic networks and industry partners, and provide a workshop, while ensuring gender balance and encouraging equal participation of female and male experts(no less than 40% of female participants) to promote inclusive development. Direct beneficiaries include government energy departments, research institutions and new energy companies, which can immediately apply projectresults to optimizeenergy dispatch and improve the scientific nature and enforceability of policy formulation. Renewable energy companies and technical service providers will also benefit from AI optimization technology and policy advice to promote low- carbon transformation and improve the resilience of the energy system.

Dissemination

Background Research Paper and Workshopmaterials will be shared with workshop participants, speakers, and members of the EWG and the PPSTI to stimulate active engagement and informed discussions. The integrated technical and policy reportwill be published electronically as an officialAPEC Publication. The primary audienceincludes policymakers, energy planners, researchers, and utilities, particularly in developing APEC economies, enablingthem to access practical guidance, best practices, and evidence-based recommendations for AI-driven renewable energyoptimization.

Gender

Please see Project Proposal in Supporting Documents folder.

Work Plan

Please see Project Proposal in Supporting Documents folder.

Risks

Please see Project Proposal in Supporting Documents folder.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Please see Project Proposal in Supporting Documents folder.

Linkages

This project adoptsa multi-level and multi-channel approachto widely attractstakeholders such as governments, enterprises, research institutions and energy industry associations, and promotes multi-party cooperation through seminars, technical forums and pilot projects. In terms of cross-forum cooperation, this project cooperates with EWG to promote intelligent energy dispatch optimization and jointly explores AI technological innovation in the energy industry with Policy Partnership on Science, Technology and Innovation (PPSTI). This project draws on APEC’s past research on renewable energydispatch and digitalenergy management, but it innovatively introduces AI optimization technology, focusing on improving the utilization rate of renewable energy and the resilience of the energy system, filling the gap between intelligent dispatch optimization and policy practice, and ensuring that the project results are forward-looking and innovativeness.

Sustainability

After APEC funding is completed, the project will maintain its long-term impact through sustained knowledge transfer, digital infrastructure, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. Beneficiaries will be encouraged to integrate projectfindings into renewableenergy strategies and climate resilience programs, linking directly to APEC’s sustainability and planetary health agendas. Follow-up surveysat 6 and 12 monthswill assess progress, the results of the surveys will be circulated to the EWG via email after the completion of the project.

Through these mechanisms, the project’s resultswill continue to generate measurable benefits, advancing regional innovation, resilience, and planetary health well beyondthe funding period.

Direct Labour

Please see Project Proposal in Supporting Documents folder.

Are there any supporting document attached?

Yes
Project No.
Project Title
Project Status
Fund Account
Sub-fund
Project Year
Project Session
APEC Funding
Co-funding Amount
Total Project Value
Sponsoring Forum
Topics
Committee
Other Fora Involved
Other Non-APEC Stakeholders Involved
Proposing Economy(ies)
Co-Sponsoring Economies
Expected Start Date
Expected Completion Date
Project Proponent Name 1
Job Title 1
Organization 1
Telephone 1
Email 1
Project Proponent Name 2
Job Title 2
Organization 2
Telephone 2
Email 2
Declaration
Project Summary
Relevance
Objectives
Alignment
Beneficiaries and Outputs
Dissemination
Gender
Work Plan
Risks
Monitoring and Evaluation
Linkages
Sustainability
Direct Labour
Are there any supporting document attached?
hdFldAdmin
Project Number
Previous Fora
Secretariat Comments
Reprogramming Notes
Consolidated QAF
Endorsement By Fora
PD Sign Off
Batch
Forum Priority
Committee Ranking Category
Committee Priority
PDM Priority
Priority Within Funding Category
Monitoring Report Received
Completion Report Received
PMU Field 1
PMU Field 2
PMU Field 3
On Behalf Of
Proposal Status
Originating Sub-Forum
Approval Status
Attachments
Content Type: Standard Proposal
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