Samarkand, Uzbekistan, May 6 (BNP): The Asian Development Bank (Asian Development Bank) has announced plans to support $70 billion in new energy and digital infrastructure initiatives across Asia and the Pacific by 2035, aimed at strengthening regional connectivity, sustainability, and economic growth.
The initiatives include two major programs—the Pan-Asia Power Grid Initiative and the Asia-Pacific Digital Highway—designed to improve cross-border electricity trade and expand digital access across developing economies.
The Pan-Asia Power Grid Initiative will mobilize around $50 billion to connect national power systems, enabling large-scale renewable energy trade across borders. It is expected to expand transmission networks, support renewable energy integration, and improve electricity access for millions of people while reducing emissions.
The Asia-Pacific Digital Highway will invest $20 billion to enhance broadband connectivity, build data infrastructure, and develop AI-ready digital ecosystems. The program aims to expand internet access to underserved populations, reduce connectivity costs, and create millions of jobs through digital transformation.
ADB President Masato Kanda emphasized that energy and digital connectivity are critical to the region’s future growth, noting that integrated systems will lower costs, improve access, and boost economic opportunities.
To support implementation, ADB will collaborate with governments, private sector partners, and development agencies, combining its own financing with cofinancing resources to scale up investments.
The initiatives are expected to play a transformative role in advancing regional integration, promoting clean energy transition, and accelerating digital inclusion across Asia and the Pacific by 2035.
