The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has launched the Competitive Procurement Center (CPC) during the Asia Low Emission Development Strategies (LEDS) Partnership Forum in Bangkok, Thailand. The CPC will serve as a one-stop-service, offering best practices and technical expertise for the competitive procurement of clean technology, clean energy systems, and related services.
This launch represents a significant advancement in accelerating clean energy deployment across Southeast Asia while promoting transparent and cost-effective procurement practices. Over 100 representatives from public, private, and non-governmental organisations participated in the launch event.
USAID’s Southeast Asia Smart Power Program has awarded a $1.3 million grant to partners ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, Creagy Company, SuSca Group, and the World Resources Institute to establish and operate the CPC. Located in Bangkok, the CPC will offer essential resources, such as case studies, market evaluations, global best practices, and procurement guidelines tailored to regional needs. ICLEI will serve as the CPC Secretariat.
The partners are developing a user-friendly procurement storefront website, which will act as the primary interface for clients, providing access to extensive research, best practices, and a portal for customised technical support services. A Leadership Council, comprising power industry experts, will guide the CPC’s research and operations, ensuring alignment with market demands and priorities.
“With the launch of the Competitive Procurement Center, USAID is reinforcing our commitment to accelerating clean energy adoption in Southeast Asia. By enhancing transparency and streamlining procurement practices, the Center will play a crucial role in fast-tracking the deployment of cutting-edge energy technologies and achieving our regional energy objectives,” said Michael Ronning, Mission Director of the USAID Regional Development Mission for Asia.
The Centre will facilitate at least two auctions through expert technical assistance until March 2026. Additionally, the CPC aims to develop a pipeline of technical assistance projects with a potential capacity of 1,000 megawatts by improving procurement processes for energy infrastructure assets. CPC will offer short-term technical support to stakeholders across the region to promote competitive procurement.
The CPC’s establishment is part of the broader USAID Southeast Asia Smart Power Programme, a flagship clean energy initiative under USAID’s Regional Development Mission for Asia.
